The Stage is Set
The NBA Finals are finally here, kicking off on Thursday, June 6th, with the Dallas Mavericks facing the Boston Celtics in a highly anticipated showdown. The Celtics, with a regular-season record of 64-18 and home-court advantage, are the favorites to win the series according to BetOnline Sportsbook (-215), while the Mavericks enter as underdogs (+185).
Betting Odds and Trends
Game 1 odds favor the Celtics by 6.5 points, with a total of 214.5. From a betting perspective, the Mavericks have been profitable, boasting an 11-6 record against the spread (ATS) in their 17 playoff games. The Celtics, on the other hand, have a 7-7 ATS record in their 14 playoff appearances. Regarding over/under betting, the Celtics lean towards the over (8-6), while the Mavericks were 9-8 to the over.
Regular Season Matchups: A Distant Memory
The Celtics won both regular-season meetings against the Mavericks in January and March. However, these games hold little significance in the context of the playoffs. The postseason is a different beast, and either team has the potential to emerge victorious.
The Celtics: A Force to be Reckoned With
The Celtics were the dominant team throughout the regular season and have continued their impressive performance in the playoffs. With an overall playoff record of 12-2, they lost only four games at home during the regular season. It’s worth noting that both of their playoff losses occurred on their home court, adding an intriguing twist to the narrative.
Redemption and Motivation
Last year’s Eastern Conference Finals heartbreak, where the Celtics fought back from a 3-0 deficit against Miami only to lose in Game 7, has undoubtedly fueled their determination. Missing the Finals two years in a row has ignited a fire within this Celtics team, and they seem to have a point to prove.
The Pick: Celtics in Six
While the Mavericks have defied expectations throughout the playoffs, it’s difficult to bet against the Celtics. Their consistent dominance, both in the regular season and playoffs, makes them the clear favorites. Although the Mavericks’ ability to cover the spread and the potential for close games cannot be overlooked, the Celtics’ overall strength and motivation make them the likely champions.
Prediction: Celtics to win the series in six games.
Schedule
Game 1: Mavericks vs. Celtics, Thursday, June 6 (8:30 ET)
Game 2: Mavericks vs. Celtics, Sunday, June 9 (8 ET)
Game 3: Celtics vs. Mavericks, Wednesday, June 12 (8:30 ET)
Game 4: Celtics vs. Mavericks, Friday, June 14 (8:30 ET)
Game 5: Mavericks vs. Celtics, Monday, June 17 (8:30 ET)*
Game 6: Celtics vs. Mavericks, Thursday, June 20 (8:30 ET)*
Game 7: Mavericks vs. Celtics, Sunday, June 23 (8 ET)*