The Cleveland Cavaliers aim to be the first team in the Eastern Conference to advance from the opening round as they face the Miami Heat on Monday’s NBA playoff schedule. The Cavaliers, favored by 8.5 points and with an over/under of 211.5, have demonstrated their strength by winning the first three games against Miami by an impressive average of 22.3 points.

This success is not solely attributed to Donovan Mitchell, as seven players from the Cavaliers are averaging over 10 points per game in this series. With pivotal playoff props available, here are critical recommendations for today’s matchups:

Bam Adebayo Over 3.5 assists (-125)

The model forecasts Adebayo will achieve 4.2 assists on Monday, translating to a 65% likelihood of surpassing four assists, which exceeds the 55.5% implied odds, according to Stephen Oh. Adebayo has averaged 4.3 assists throughout the season and notably performs better at home (4.6 assists) compared to away games (4.0). He has exceeded this assist mark in 27 of 40 games (66.7%).

“He has been inconsistent in this series with assist totals of 3, 9, and 1, but he was solid down the stretch with an impressive 19-9 (68%) statistic,” noted Oh. “The Over reflects Miami players hitting threes early on, which would amplify both this prop and contribute to the total game Over.”

Bettors can find the best value at -125 odds with BetMGM.

Kel’el Ware Over 11.5 points + rebounds (-112)

In Game 3, Ware scored eight points and grabbed five rebounds within 19 minutes, hitting this total after averaging 9.3 points and 7.4 rebounds during the regular season. The Heat require Ware’s size to combat Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley, given Cleveland’s strength in the painted area. The No. 15 overall draft pick in 2024 has been a reliable contributor, averaging 10.7 points and 9.4 rebounds during March and April.

With a consistent track record of exceeding his points + rebounds total in his last five home appearances while underdog, Ware’s prospects appear promising in this high-stakes matchup. Available odds are favored at -112, with competing sportsbooks pricing in at -120 or higher.

Stephen Curry Over 1.5 steals + blocks (-120)

Curry has logged multiple steals + blocks in consecutive games this series, including two blocks and a steal during Game 3 against the Warriors. As playoff pressure builds, Curry’s extended playing time (41 minutes in Game 3, the most of the season) highlights his critical role. With opportunities abounding, audio-visual options provide fans with ways to catch this pivotal game as the Warriors aim for a decisive victory.

Oh mentions, “The Warriors need to conclude this series as swiftly as feasible, particularly after a play-in game, and with key players like Jimmy Butler questionable, the urgency to advance is paramount.”

For further insights on completing your NBA betting strategies, explore SportsLine’s overall predictions and player props here.