The Orlando Magic will host the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference first round at Kia Center on Friday. The Cavaliers lead the series 3-2.

The Magic have their backs against the wall ahead of this matchup Friday following the loss in Game 5. However, they should be boosted by having won the previous two games in Orlando relatively comfortably. The Magic found their offense in Game 5 and scored 103 points, but the defense hurt them, as Game 5 was the first time they allowed Cleveland to score more than 100 points in the series. Ergo, it seems a few tweaks on the defensive side of the ball might be everything the Magic need to force a decisive Game 7. That alone would be a massive victory for Orlando following its woeful start to the series, but it also signals a win given how young -- and inexperienced -- the roster is. The Magic will need their star players to perform at their best, though. Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner will ultimately carry the Magic to a potential Game 7.

Gary Harris (hamstring) is listed as questionable for Friday for the Magic.

The Cavaliers have been a team of two tales in this series, dominating at home but struggling massively on the road. Given that trend, this series should be decided in a potential Game 7 in Cleveland. However, the Cavaliers have other plans, and they’re looking to secure the victory in Game 6 to set a matchup against the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. The Cavaliers know they need to play at the top of their game to get past the Magic, including Donovan Mitchell, who struggled badly on offense in the two previous contests played at Kia Center. Even though Jarrett Allen, Evan Mobley and Darius Garland can carry the team on some stretches, the Cavaliers will only go as far as Mitchell can take them. If he’s at his best Friday, the Cavs have a solid shot to move into the Eastern Conference Semifinals.

The Cavaliers are listing Jarrett Allen (ribs) as a game-time call for Friday. Craig Porter (ankle), Ty Jerome (ankle) and Dean Wade (knee) are out