2010 NBA Playoffs Betting: Bobcats vs. Magic Prediction: April 18th 2010

Charlotte Bobcats vs. Orlando Magic
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The 2009 runner up Orlando Magic (59-23, 46-34-2 ATS) take their first step towards getting back to the NBA Finals when they welcome the division rival Charlotte Bobcats (44-38, 44-37-1 ATS) into Amway Arena for the #2/#7 2010 NBA playoff betting series. The Bobcats made some history this season by securing the franchise’s first winning season, and because of it, they were rewarded with their first ever playoff berth. The Magic cruised along all season and come into this one playing some real solid ball having won and covered each of their L/6 games of the regular season.

HC Larry Brown has built the Bobcats in the mold of his championship Detroit clubs which were known as squads that weren’t afraid to get down and dirty and play hard-nosed defense. The Bobcats ranked #1 in the NBA this year in defense at 93.8 points per game allowed. They also were in the Top 10 in field goal percentage (44.8%) and three-point percentage (33.8%) allowed. Offensively, Charlotte struggles as it ranks 28th in points scored (95.3 PPG) and hits a shade over 45 percent of its shots from the floor.

The Magic had the perfect mix of offensive abilities and shut down defensive mentalities in 2009-10, and their stats suggest that they are one of the best-rounded clubs in the playoffs. Orlando averaged 102.8 points per game for (6th) and 95.3 points against (4th). It also had a field goal shooting discrepancy of +3.2%, which is one of the best margins in basketball. Four players averaged scoring in double-digits, with C Dwight Howard leading the way with 18.3 PPG.

The Magic hold a 3-1 SU season series advantage heading into this NBA playoff betting series against the Bobcats, but both clubs secured a pair of pointspread covers. Charlotte won just 13 of its 41 road games on the year, but carries a 21-19-1 ATS tally with them into Amway for this one. Orlando dominated its opposition at home going 34-7, and it also made its NBA betting backers happy by covering 24 of those games.

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