The Boston Celtics kicked off the NBA Finals with an emphatic 107-89 win against the Dallas Mavericks to open up Game 1. They easily covered their -6.5 closing line and managed to stay under 217.5 total score, though late-game action slowed significantly. As of Saturday afternoon, Game 2 is open with an opening spread of -7 with a total sitting at 214.5, with minimal change expected between now and then.
- Spread: Boston -7
- Moneyline Dallas +215
- Moneyline Boston -260
- Over/Under 214.5
These odds were updated at 6 am EST on 06/09/24, coming from Draft Kings.
Our Best Pick: Mavericks to Cover
Dallas appeared unable to generate offense in Game 1, primarily due to Boston’s defensive game plan. They avoided blitzing, as has been their practice all season; instead, they changed schemes, switched defense, and used drop coverage judiciously—something that prevented Dallas from hitting shots when Boston switched defense or took advantage of drop coverage with shooting.
Kyrie Irving struggled from the field due to Jrue Holiday’s relentless defense. Holiday’s ability to fight over screens, lock on to Irving and restrict space was instrumental to their defensive success – not only limited his scoring (6 for 19 from the field and 0-for-5 from 3), but he was also effective at eliminating other aspects of Irving’s game that make him effective when his shot wasn’t falling (only two assists and zero free-throw attempts from him!). Dallas may try their hardest in Game 2, but I doubt this series will be high scoring regardless.
The Celtics did an exceptional job of negating Dallas Mavs’ corner three attempts during Game 1, something that will need to be rectified in Game 2. Dallas attempted only four corner 3s in total. If Dallas wants to match Boston’s dynamic offense, more 3-point looks all around must come their way.
Kristaps Porzingis missed two rounds with a calf strain, so his health status was the main focus for Game 1. I liked Boston entering this series because of Porzingis’ unique combination of stretching the floor and protecting the rim – something I noticed again after Game 1 went down. His unique skillset makes them hard to guard against; perhaps Game 2 should involve finding ways to reduce his effectiveness while still exploiting their advantage – however that will be difficult given his 3-point line is relatively modest (1.5) due to all his extra juice!
Jayson Tatum is another key factor in this series, although not necessarily because of his scoring. The Celtics can score without needing Tatum to drop 25 points every night; his size and rebounding prowess make him Boston’s most valuable player, contrary to Jason Kidd’s claims of Jaylen Brown being their top performer. Let us show you how to
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Tip: Bet the Mavericks to cover
- Rebounding will be the key
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Boston at Home
- Mavs will hang tough
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Mavericks vs Celtics Moneyline
The only money line bet worth it in this game is on the Mavericks; the Celtic’s money line offers no value.If you are looking for the best sportsbook, we’ve got you covered as we break down the
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Tip: Bet Mavericks to cover
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Money line value on Mavericks
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No moneyline value with Boston
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Luka to have a big game
Mavericks vs Celtics Over/Under Analysis
The over/under is 214.5; game one would have gone over if Dallas played better, the pace of game one slowed dramatically in the last five minutes since the game was already decided. I expect the Mavs to play much better in game 2, bet the over.
- Odds favor game in the 100s
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Game will be played at a fast pace
- Rebounding will be key
Mavericks vs Celtics Spread Analysis
I think the spread is high, but to be expected. At first glance, many people will bet Boston and give the points. A closer look will show you a much improved Mavericks team ready to hang with the Celtics. Don’t read too much about what happened in game one.
Tip: Bet the Mavericks to Cover
- Which team controls the post
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Mavs will play better in game 2
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Dallas need to shoot lights out
Mavericks vs Celtics Head-to-Head
The Celtics have dominated the Mavericks over the last two years, but as I keep saying, this is not the same Mavericks team. They are one of the few teams in the NBA that match up well with the Celtics. Check out our guide to betting on
NBA Playoff Parlays.
Injuries and Suspensions
Mavericks Injury Report
- Prosper- Out
- Doncic- Questionable
Celtics Injury Report
Conclusion
This will be a great series, and you will see a focused Mavericks team stay in this game all the way to the end. I see Dallas covering the spread and possibly even winning this game.
