The highly anticipated NBA Finals have finally arrived between the Dallas Mavericks and the Boston Celtics. Both teams made it this far, however, one of the teams had to go through a harder path compared to the other.
The Mavericks started their playoff run by defeating Paul George and the Los Angeles Clippers in six games in the first round, then the first-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in the second round in six games as well. Most recently, they defeated Anthony Edwards and the Minnesota Timberwolves in five games in the Western Conference Finals to advance.
Bet on Mavericks vs. Celtics GM 1
DAL +6.5
BOS -6.5
On the other side, the Celtics had what some might consider a less difficult journey, partly due to circumstances beyond their control. Their opponents faced key absences — Jimmy Butler for the Miami Heat, Donovan Mitchell for the Cleveland Cavaliers, and Tyrese Haliburton for the Indiana Pacers in critical games — which potentially eased the Celtics’ progression through the rounds. While the Celtics efficiently handled each challenge, dispatching theHeat and Cavaliers in five games each, and sweeping the Pacers in the conference finals, the level of competition may not have tested them as rigorously as the Mavericks were tested.
As both teams prepare to face off in the NBA Finals, the Mavericks may draw confidence from having been battle-tested against some of the best teams in the league. On the other hand, the Celtics, while possibly having had a smoother path, have also demonstrated efficiency and dominance throughout their playoff run.
Let’s look at the betting odds on both teams for this series opener:
Mavericks vs Celtics Game 1 best odds
| Mavericks Moneyline Odds | +211 @ Pinnacle |
| Celtics Moneyline Odds | -227 @ Betano |
| Over/Under | Over 214.5 points (-115 @ Betway) Under 216 points (-104 @ Pinnacle) |
| Spread | Celtics -6.5 (-106 @ PROLINE +) Mavericks +6.5 (-106 @ Pinnacle) |
| Series Odds | Celtics -225, Mavericks +185 @ bet365 |
| Time/Date | June 6, 8:30 p.m. ET |
| TV | Broadcast: TSN Stream: NBA League Pass (How to watch the NBA in Canada?) |
Betting Dallas Mavericks (12-5 SU, 11-6 ATS, 9-8 o/u)
The Mavericks’ impressive performance in closing out the series against the Timberwolves showcases their readiness for the NBA Finals. Luka Doncic’s explosive start, scoring 20 points in the first quarter alone and outscoring the entire Timberwolves team, set the tone for the game. His and Kyrie Irving’s synchrony, with both stars finishing with 36 points each, highlights the formidable offensive firepower the Mavericks possess.
As the Mavericks prepare to face the Celtics at TD Garden for Game 1 of The Finals, the narrative adds an intriguing layer with Irving returning to play against his former team. This matchup is not just a contest of skill but also laden with emotional undertones, given Irving’s history with the Celtics.
Betting Boston Celtics (12-2 SU, 7-7 ATS, 8-6 o/u)
The Celtics’ journey to the NBA Finals, culminating in a sweep of the Pacers, showcases their resilience and clutch performance capabilities, even though the games were closely contested. Particularly in Game 4, the narrow victory highlighted by crucial contributions from Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Derrick White’s game-winning three, demonstrated their ability to pull through in tight situations.
As they prepare for The Finals against the Mavericks, the Celtics are set to face arguably their most formidable opponent yet this postseason. But the potential return of Kristaps Porzingis from injury is a huge boost and could sway the matchup in their favour. His skill and height are undeniable, and the Mavericks will have a tough time matchup up against him.
This series sets up a fascinating narrative with multiple reunions, notably Irving facing his former team and Porzingis potentially taking the court in such a high-stakes series. These storylines enrich the matchup, making it not just a battle of skills but also a clash of past associations and emotional connections.
For the Celtics, who have not been pushed to their limits as much as the Mavericks in these playoffs, this series will be a true test of their championship mettle. They will need to leverage their defensive strengths and continue to exploit their offensive versatility to counter the Mavericks’ potent scoring duo of Doncic and Irving.
Luka Doncic to record a triple-double
+360
Mavericks vs. Celtics injury concerns
- Doncic is probable for Game 1 with a right knee sprain and left ankle soreness.
- Oliver-Maxence Prosper (ankle) is questionable.
- Porzingis (calf) is probable.
NBA betting trends
- In the two previous regular season meetings, the teams played over the total both times.
- The over is 5-1 in the Mavericks’ last six games.
- The over is 5-1 in Boston’s last six games.
NBA player prop trends
- Brown has recorded over 22.5 points in six of his last seven games. His line is at -125 to record over 22.5 points in Game 1.
- Doncic has recorded over 31.5 points in four of his last five games. His line is at -125 to record over 31.5 points.
- Al Horford has recorded over 11.5 points + rebounds in each of his last five games. His line is at -125 to record over 11.5 points + rebounds.
Mavericks vs. Celtics predictions
- Doncic triple-double: +360 (Sports Interaction). Doncic recorded a triple-double in both of the previous meetings with the Celtics this season and he’s done it six times in these playoffs.
- Over 214.5 total points: -115 (Betway). During the regular season, the total points line was surpassed in every game played between these teams with 229 and 248 total points scored in those matchups. Given the talent on display in this series, it is also expected to be high-scoring throughout The Finals.
