With a big victory playing in Oklahoma City on Wednesday, the Dallas Mavericks made a huge step forward to make it to the Western Conference Finals for the second time in three seasons. Another big night for the European superstar Luka Doncic, who put up big numbers on his back, 31 points, 11 assists, and 10 rebounds on 12-for-22 shooting.
He was so good with his triple-double, that he tied LeBron James for the second most postseason with 30 points triple-doubles by a player 25 or younger. His co-players had also a great game, Derrick Jones Jr., added 19 points his highest in the postseason, PJ Washington 10 points, and 10 rebounds and Kyrie Irving the second-best player on the team with 12 points.
On the visitor’s side, their best player and future superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander added 30 points, but no other teammate was able to score more than 13 points and the Mavs were able to hold the Oklahoma Thunder to shoot for 42,5%. With the loss at home, the young squad will face them on Saturday to elimination for the first time in the playoffs.
BUSR’s NBA Playoffs Odds
- Moneyline (ML): Thunder +142 (bet $100 to win $142) | Mavericks -168 (bet $168 to win $100)
- Against the Spread (ATS): Thunder +3.5 (-110) | Mavericks -3.5 (-110)
- Over/Under (O/U): 208.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)
Thunder at Mavericks Picks and Predictions
- Prediction: Mavericks 106, Thunder 101
- Moneyline: PASS
The Mavericks are likely to close out the series and are 3-2 at home in the playoffs, but at -168, there’s no value in betting them outright. The Thunder at +142 offers the only value on the money line.
- Against the Spread: BET MAVERICKS -3.5 (-110)
The Mavericks have been strong against Western Conference teams, boasting a 39-24 ATS record this season, including the playoffs. They’ve covered 5 of their last 7 games and are 4-2 ATS as favorites recently.
The Thunder struggled at home in Game 5 and may find it tough on the road in Dallas. They’re 1-3 ATS in their last 4 games and heavily depend on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Why the Mavericks Can Cover?
Luka Doncic has dominated the series, leading the team with 27.1 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 9 assists per game. He’s logged triple-doubles in two consecutive games.
PJ Washington provides a strong supporting role with his catch-and-shoot ability and rebounding. He averages 14.7 points and shoots 40% from three.
Why the Thunder Can Cover?
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a dynamic scorer and playmaker, leading the team in points, rebounds, and assists.
Chet Holmgren offers rim protection and scoring, averaging 15 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks per game.
How to Make Thunder vs. Mavericks Picks
Betting the Over on the Thunder vs. Mavericks game presents an opportunity based on several factors. First, both teams boast dynamic offenses capable of scoring in bunches giving a boost of intensity to this NBA Playoffs Odds.
The Mavericks, led by Luka Doncic, are averaging high point totals, with Doncic himself constantly putting up MVP numbers, including back-to-back triple-doubles. His ability to facilitate and score makes Dallas a potent offensive threat.
On the other side, the Thunder rely heavily on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who has been a relentless scorer throughout the series. His knack for getting to the rim and hitting mid-range jumpers keeps the Thunder’s offense humming. Additionally, Chet Holmgren’s presence adds another layer of scoring with his ability to hit perimeter shots and finish inside.
Historically, games between these two teams have been high-scoring affairs. The projected Over/Under total of 208.5 points is well within reach.
With a big victory playing in Oklahoma City on Wednesday, the Dallas Mavericks made a huge step forward to make it to the Western Conference Finals for the second time in three seasons. Another big night for the European superstar Luka Doncic, who put up big numbers on his back, 31 points, 11 assists, and 10 rebounds on 12-for-22 shooting.
He was so good with his triple-double, that he tied LeBron James for the second most postseason with 30 points triple-doubles by a player 25 or younger. His co-players had also a great game, Derrick Jones Jr., added 19 points his highest in the postseason, PJ Washington 10 points, and 10 rebounds and Kyrie Irving the second-best player on the team with 12 points.
On the visitor’s side, their best player and future superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander added 30 points, but no other teammate was able to score more than 13 points and the Mavs were able to hold the Oklahoma Thunder to shoot for 42,5%. With the loss at home, the young squad will face them on Saturday to elimination for the first time in the playoffs.
