The Dallas Mavericks displayed a remarkable effort in Game 4 of the NBA Finals, avoiding a sweep by delivering a dominant 122-84 victory over the Boston Celtics. This commanding performance has breathed new life into the series, shifting some of the momentum as the teams prepare for Game 5 back in Boston.
The Mavericks’ convincing win in Game 4 suggests a heightened level of execution that they will need to maintain as they face the challenge of playing on the Celtics’ home court. For Dallas, continuing this level of play is crucial. The Celtics, on the other hand, will need to regroup and reassess their approach after the significant loss. Playing in front of their home crowd again for Game 5, they will look to leverage the home-court advantage to close out the series.
Bet on Mavericks vs. Celtics GM 5
DAL +6.5
BOS -6.5
This turnaround by the Mavericks has potentially set the stage for a more competitive continuation of The Finals. If they can sustain their Game 4 performance and further exploit any weaknesses in the Celtics’ lineup, they could very well force a Game 6 back in Dallas.
Let’s look at the best betting odds on both teams for this upcoming matchup.
Mavericks vs. Celtics best odds
| Mavericks Moneyline Odds | +225 @ Betway |
| Celtics Moneyline Odds | -238 @ Betano |
| Over/Under | Over 209.5 points (-105 @ Betway) Under 210.5 points (-110 @ PowerPlay) |
| Spread | Celtics -6.5 (-107 @ Pinnacle) Mavericks +6.5 (-103 @ Pinnacle) |
| Series Odds | Celtics -2400, Mavericks +1200 @ bet365 |
| Time/Date | June 17, 8:30 p.m. ET |
| TV | Broadcast: TSN Stream: NBA League Pass (How to watch the NBA in Canada?) |
About the Mavericks (13-8 SU, 12-8-1 ATS, 9-12 o/u)
The Mavericks’ impressive start in Game 4, highlighted by their explosive first-quarter performance, set the tone for a game that ultimately kept their championship aspirations alive. Luka Doncic’s outstanding 25-point effort by halftime exemplifies his leadership and ability to perform under pressure, a critical factor as the Mavericks face continued challenges in the series.
Kyrie Irving’s contribution of 21 points and Dereck Lively III’s double-double with 11 points and 12 rebounds also underscore the team’s depth and the multi-faceted approach they can deploy. A special mention goes to Tim Hardaway Jr. who made five three-pointers in a row in garbage time.
With the series shifting back to Boston, the Mavericks have a significant opportunity to build on their recent success and continue to shift the series’ momentum in their favor. Winning Game 5 on the road will not only be a monumental boost for their confidence but also crucial for applying pressure on the Celtics by bringing the series back to Dallas for Game 6.
About the Celtics (15-3 SU, 9-8-1 ATS, 8-10 o/u)
The Celtics indeed experienced an uncharacteristically poor performance in their latest Finals game, with key players struggling significantly with their shooting. Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Derrick White all underperformed, which is unusual for a team known for its scoring depth and resilience. This off night came at a critical moment in the series, leaving the door open for the Dallas Mavericks to extend the competition.
As the series returns to Boston for Game 5, the Celtics find themselves in a crucial position. Playing at home, they have the opportunity to capitalize on the support of their fans and the familiarity of their home court. The potential to clinch their 18th championship in front of a home crowd is a significant motivator, but it also adds pressure to perform.
A loss in Game 5 would not only extend the series but also shift the momentum significantly in favour of the Mavericks, especially as the series moves back to Dallas for Game 6. Therefore, the Celtics must approach Game 5 with a sense of urgency and a clear focus on executing their game plan effectively.
Expect Boston to come out determined in Game 5, looking to correct their previous mistakes and close out the series with a championship win. Their ability to bounce back after tough games has been a hallmark of their success this season, and they will likely rely heavily on their star players Tatum and Brown to lead the charge in what could be the most significant game of their season.
Luka Doncic to record a triple-double
+475
Mavericks vs. Celtics injury concerns
- Kristaps Porzingis (lower leg) is available.
- Luka Doncic (thoracic contusion) is listed as probable.
NBA betting trends
- The over went 2-0 in the two regular-season meetings between the teams.
- The under is 4-0 in this series.
NBA player prop trends
- Jaylen Brown has recorded under 6.5 rebounds in four of his last five games. His line is at -130 to record under 6.5 rebounds in Game 4 against the Mavericks.
- Luka Doncic has recorded under 7.5 assists in four of his last five games. His line is at +115 to record under 7.5 assists against the Celtics.
- Jayson Tatum has recorded under 27.5 points in four of his last five games. His line is at -120 to record under 27.5 points against the Mavericks.
Mavericks vs. Celtics predictions
- Celtics -6.5 spread: -110. With Game 5 back in Boston and the Celtics leading the series 3-1, it would be ideal for them to clinch the championship in front of their home fans. The Celtics have been the superior team throughout the series, and it seems the Mavericks got lucky in Game 4 with everyone on the Celtics having an off-night. Expect the Celtics to secure their 18th championship at home.
- Under 209.5 total points: -110. In Games 1, 2, 3, and 4, the total points fell significantly short, with final scores of 196, 203, 205, and 206. I expect this trend to continue, and the game will go under once again.
