Dallas Mavericks vs. Minnesota Timberwolves Game 1 5/22/24 – The clash of titans is set for the NBA Western Conference Finals as the Dallas Mavericks (50-32) prepare to face off against the Minnesota Timberwolves (56-26) in what promises to be a riveting contest. The game, slated for Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at 8:30 PM ET, will unfold at the Target Center and will be broadcast on TNT. Fans not in attendance can catch the live action via NBA League Pass. For those eager to make informed decisions, delve into our free NBA Finals predictions today.
| When: | Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at 8:30 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Target Center |
| TV: | TNT |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Game 48. ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/0FhWPHm4FR
— Detroit Tigers (@tigers) May 21, 2024
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mavericks | +4.5 -115 | O 207.5 -110 | +160 |  |
| Timberwolves | -4 -110 | U 208.5 -115 | -170 | |
| ||||
The betting odds are distinctly tilting in favor of the Minnesota Timberwolves, who are seen as the favorites with a -4.5 point spread. However, the Mavericks have shown resilience, especially in away games against the spread (27-14). The total set at 206.5 also hints at a potentially high-scoring affair.
Luka Doncic (PG) vs. Anthony Edwards (SG)
Luka Doncic is definitely the centerpiece of the Mavericks and had an incredible regular season with 33.9 points and 9.8 assists on average. His capacity of shooting beyond the arc and also his passing abilities makes him really tough to guard. Even though he has four turnovers per game, this ratio remains at a good number.
The Timberwolves’ shooting guard Anthony Edwards also had an impressive season and added 25.9 points on average to the team’s score. Although Edwards lags behind Doncic in assists, their defensive numbers are close, and Edwards’ scoring from the field is much higher.
The stylistic tensions between Doncic and Edwards are Doncic’s all-court game versus Edwards’ driving, scoring, and athleticism. Both players can carry the game on their shoulders but the crucial factor of Doncic having experience in running the game might decide the fate of the game for the Mavericks.
Mavericks’ Statistical Insight
Dallas has been exposing offensive power all through the season where they rank as the third team averaging 117.9 points per game with a fairly good efficiency of 48.1 percent of their shots coming from the field. They love to fire from three-point range as they average 14.6 threes per contest. But their rebounding at 42.9 per game may turn out to be crucial in setting the tempo against the Timberwolves. This high number of points from beyond the arc is very important especially against a very defensive team like Timberwolves. Also, their free throw shooting at 75.8% will be essential in tight games in which small percentages can mean the difference between winning and losing.
Timberwolves’ Statistical Insight
The Minnesota Timberwolves are not too far behind averaging 113 points per game and a slight improvement on field goal percentage of 48.5%. Their defense shows 7.9 steals and 6.1 blocked shots per game, which means that they play more aggressively and might interfere with the Mavericks’ game. They will be a threat by converting defensive plays into points especially against a potent Mavericks offense. Rebounding is also slightly in favor of the Timberwolves with 43.6 per game which would assist them in controlling the board and restrict Dallas’ second-chance points.
Trends
Dallas Mavericks Betting Trends
Mavericks are 3-2 in their last 5 games.
Dallas Mavericks are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread
Mavericks are 27-14 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 2 of Mavericks’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 16 of Mavericks’ 41 last games at home
Minnesota Timberwolves Betting Trends
Timberwolves are 3-2 in their last 5 games.
Minnesota Timberwolves are 1-4 in their last 5 games against the spread
Timberwolves are 22-18 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 4 of Timberwolves’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 18 of Timberwolves’ 41 last games at home
Injuries
Dallas Mavericks
Maxi Kleber PF Is out indefinitely, Shoulder
Luka Doncic PG Is probable Wednesday vs Minnesota, Knee
Olivier-Maxence Prosper PF Is out indefinitely, Ankle
Minnesota Timberwolves
No reported injuries
Dallas Mavericks vs. Minnesota Timberwolves Betting Picks
Considering the trends and performances, the Mavericks appear to be an intriguing underdog pick, especially with the +4.5 spread. Their strong record against the spread in road games and Doncic’s leadership could potentially tip the scales in their favor. For those exploring top-tier online betting sites, considering an over on the total might also be worth the gamble given both teams’ scoring capabilities. Sign up today to make your NBA betting prediction!
Score Prediction: Mavericks 108, Timberwolves 105.
