Dallas Mavericks vs. Boston Celtics Prediction: Can Luka Doncic, Mavs Surprise Celtics in NBA Finals Game 1?
The Dallas Mavericks will visit the Boston Celtics for Game 1 of the NBA Finals on Thursday night. Can Luka Doncic and the Mavs shock the Celtics in this opening matchup? Krabs provides his prediction and pick for Mavericks vs. Celtics Game 1
Krabs - June 6, 2024, 4:10 PM EDT
5 minDallas Mavericks vs. Boston Celtics Prediction: Can Luka Doncic, Mavs Surprise Celtics in NBA Finals Game 1?
The Celtics had one of the easiest paths to the NBA Finals in recent history. They didn’t lose more than one game in any of the previous series' this playoffs. They will face their toughest challenge yet as they welcome in Luka Doncic and the Mavs to Boston…
MAVERICKS VS. CELTICS GAME 1 DATE, TIME, AND WHERE TO WATCH
- Date: June 6, 2024
- Start Time: 8:30 p.m. ET
- Where to Watch: ABC
MAVERICKS VS. CELTICS GAME 1 ODDS
- Spread: Mavericks +6 (-105), Celtics -6 (-115)
- Total Odds: O 215.5 (-110), U 215.5 (-105)
- Moneyline Odds: Mavericks (+210), Celtics (-230)
DALLAS MAVERICKS VS. BOSTON CELTICS GAME 1 PREDICTION
The Mavericks are a popular wager tonight, but I’m not wavering. The narrative of Dallas struggling in Game 1’s makes me think the Mavs come out strong after nearly a week off. The Celtics have destroyed every team in their path along the way to the NBA Finals. Don’t be surprised if Luka and the Mavs bring the energy and shock the Celtics on their home floor early on in Game 1.
Boston might be the only 1-seed left standing, but the Mavericks have also looked like a 1-seed considering how well they’ve performed in the playoffs. The combination of Daniel Gafford and Dereck Lively down low has proven to be one of the best defensive interiors in basketball. If the Celtics think they are going to be able to get to the rim against this interior defense, they are mistaken. Boston is going to have to rely on perimeter shooting if they want to win this game, or cover.
I’m tired of hearing the narrative that Dallas doesn’t show up in Game 1. They disproved that theory in their last series against the Timberwolves. After nearly a week off, I’m fully expecting Luka and the Mavericks to pick up right where they left off. This Dallas team, and mainly Luka, has played better on the road in the playoffs. I’m not worried about their first road test in this series…
Back the Mavericks to keep this game within the number on Thursday. 6.5 points is a lot for the NBA Finals, and I’m predicting this game to go down to the wire. Whoever has the last possession in this game will pull out the victory. Take the Mavs with the points… I’ll meet you at the cash counter after an electric Game 1 in Boston.
DALLAS MAVERICKS VS. BOSTON CELTICS GAME 1 PICK
Pick: DAL +6.5 (-110) CLICK HERE TO SEE WHICH SPORTSBOOK HAS THE BEST ODDS
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