With the Boston Celtics taking a 2-0 series lead after a close 105-98 victory over the Dallas Mavericks in Game 2, the pressure is mounting on the Mavericks as The Finals shift to Dallas for the next two games. This situation puts Dallas in a critical position, where winning on home court becomes imperative to keep its championship hopes alive.
The Mavericks will need to leverage the home-court advantage to ignite their performance, particularly from players who have been underperforming or inconsistent so far in the series. Kyrie Irving’s struggles, in particular, have been noticeable, and his ability to bounce back could be a key factor in changing the dynamics of the series. The upcoming games at home present an opportunity to reset and approach each game with the necessary adjustments and mindset to overcome the 2-0 deficit. The Mavericks will need to focus on one game at a time, ensuring they secure a win in Game 3 to build momentum and confidence.
Bet on Celtics vs. Mavericks GM 3
BOS +2.5
DAL -2.5
The Celtics, on the other hand, will aim to maintain their defensive intensity and continue to exploit the Mavericks’ weaknesses. Their ability to perform under pressure and execute their game plan on the road will be crucial as they attempt to take a commanding 3-0 lead, which historically almost guarantees a series win.
Let’s look at the betting odds on both teams for this upcoming matchup.
Celtics vs. Mavericks best odds
| Celtics Moneyline Odds | +126 @ Caesars |
| Mavericks Moneyline Odds | -128 @ Betano |
| Over/Under | Over 212.5 points (-112) @ FanDuel Under 214.5 points (-118) @ 888 |
| Spread | Mavericks -2.5 (-105) @ Betano Celtics +2.5 (-104) @ Pinnacle |
| Series Odds | Celtics -750, Mavericks +525 @ bet365 |
| Time/Date | June 12, 8:30 p.m. ET |
| TV | Broadcast: TSN Stream: NBA League Pass (How to watch the NBA in Canada?) |
Betting Boston Celtics (14-2 SU, 8-7-1 ATS, 8-8 o/u)
The Celtics have continued to demonstrate their depth and versatility in the NBA Finals, with different players stepping up in each game to secure victories. In the latest win, Jrue Holiday emerged as a critical factor, especially with his explosive start in the first half, scoring 17 points which set the tone for the rest of the game. Holiday’s ability to perform at both ends of the floor was top tier, finishing with 26 points and 11 rebounds. Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum also made significant contributions, with Brown adding 21 points and seven assists, and Tatum nearly achieving a triple-double.
As the series shifts to Dallas, the Celtics carry significant momentum, having secured the first two games. This advantage puts considerable pressure on the Mavericks, who now face the daunting task of needing to win at home to stay in the series. The dynamics and outcomes of the next game could very well dictate the rest of the series as a Celtics win in Game 3 would basically guarantee their championship.
Betting Dallas Mavericks (12-7 SU, 11-7-1 ATS, 9-10 o/u)
The Mavericks faced another tough challenge in Game 2 of the NBA Finals, showing improvement from their Game 1 performance but still falling short against the Celtics. Luka Doncic delivered a stellar performance with a 30-point triple-double, indicating his ability to perform at the highest level under pressure. He contributed 32 points, 11 assists, and 11 rebounds along with four steals.
However, the supporting cast, particularly Irving, has yet to find their rhythm in the series. Irving’s performance of 16 points on 7-for-18 shooting reflects ongoing struggles, and his inability to efficiently contribute points is a significant concern for Dallas. As the series progresses, his improvement and return to form will be critical for the Mavericks to turn the tide.
Another pressing issue for the Mavericks is their lacklustre three-point shooting from players other than Doncic. The lack of perimeter scoring has certainly hampered their offensive efficiency, making it difficult to keep up with a well-rounded Celtics team. For the Mavericks to regain competitiveness in the series, they will need more players to step up and contribute, especially from beyond the arc.
As the series moves to Dallas for Game 3, the Mavericks face the daunting task of trying to become only the sixth team in NBA history to overcome a 2-0 deficit in The Finals.
Luka Doncic over 3.5 three-pointers
-154
Celtics vs. Mavericks injury concerns
- Kristaps Porzingis suffered a torn medial retinaculum allowing dislocation of the posterior tibialis tendon in his left leg in Game 2, the Celtics announced Tuesday. He is listed as questionable for Game 3.
- Luka Doncic (chest) is probable but said Tuesday during media availability that he “feels good” ahead of Game 3.
NBA betting trends
- These teams played over the total in both of their regular-season meetings, but they’ve played under the total in both of the previous games in The Finals.
- The under is 3-0 in Boston’s last three games.
- The Celtics are just 2-5-1 ATS in their last eight games.
NBA player prop trends
- Tatum has recorded under 27.5 points in four of his last five games. His line is around -120 to record under 27.5 points in Game 3 against the Mavericks.
- Doncic has recorded over 3.5 threes in each of his last five games. His line is around -160 to record over 3.5 threes.
- Holiday has recorded over 24.5 points + assists + rebounds in each of his last five games. His line is around -115 to record over 24.5 points + rebounds + assists.
Celtics vs. Mavericks predictions
- Doncic over 3.5 threes: -154 @ Betano. Luka has hit this line in his last five games and has been attempting threes at an impressive volume, averaging over nine attempts per game over his last seven games. With another big game needed from him in Game 3 to keep the Mavericks in the series, I expect him to continue firing from three.
- Under 212.5 total points: -112 @ FanDuel. In Games 1 and 2, the total points fell significantly short, with final scores of 196 and 203. With Porzingis doubtful to play, I expect Game 3 to follow the same pattern and stay under the total points line, especially given the Mavericks’ lack of three-point shooting in the first two games.
