Dallas Mavericks vs. Oklahoma City Thunder Game 1 5/7/24 – The NBA West Conference Semifinals are heating up with a thrilling matchup as the Dallas Mavericks (50-32) face off against the Oklahoma City Thunder (57-25) in Game 1. Set to take place on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at 9:30 PM ET, this game promises intense competition and critical plays that will delight basketball fans and bettors alike. This showdown at the Paycom Center, broadcast on TNT, is a must-watch as both teams vie for an advantage in this pivotal series. Let’s dive into our free NBA West Conference Semifinals picks for this enticing battle.
| When: | Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at 9:30 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Paycom Center, Oklahoma City |
| TV: | TNT |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
That Playoff heat tho 😮💨 @Sprite // #OneForDallas pic.twitter.com/YzQrPK2F1w
— Dallas Mavericks (@dallasmavs) May 5, 2024
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mavericks | +3.5 (-110) | 216 over (-110) | +136 |  |
| Thunder | -3.5 (-110) | 216 under (-110) | -162 | |
| ||||
The odds indicate a close contest, with the Thunder favored slightly at home. The Mavericks’ underdog status at +136 and a +3.5 point spread suggest that the bookmakers expect a tight game. Given both teams’ performance trends, bettors should consider the Over 216 points, as the offensive prowess on display could tip the scales for a high-scoring affair.
Luka Doncic (PG) vs. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (PG)
Luka Doncic has performed incredibly well to post an average of 29.8 PPG, 8.8 RPG, and 9.5 APG in the Mavs playoffs. Sometimes considered the leader of Dallas, his control of pace and of the moments of the game is what makes him one of the best in the team. Although he averages 3.7 turnovers per game, it is his effort to defend off the Thunder’s pressure that may be the concerning part.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, in contrast, has been a veritable fire-within-the-Thunder, scoring 27.3 PPG and shooting at 48.2% from the field. He can penetrate defenses and facilitate excellent shots not solely for himself but also his teammates. Thus, the Mavericks´ defense will find it challenging to stop this young talent.
When these two guards combine their might on court, get ready to witness an unparalleled brilliance of basketball. Those players also are two key components of their squads’ engines and they will try to be ahead from the struggle set in the beginning of the match. It may be their clash that determines what the flow of the game would be like as much as who the winner would be.
Mavericks’ Offensive Mastery
The team of Dallas Mavericks has its powers that make the fans enjoy top performance with an average of 107 points per game success rate of 46.5% field goal percentage. Especially, their tenacity to plagiarize three-pointers over the average of 11.7 long-range shots per game, is a defining part of their technique. Opening these shooting threats, plus Doncic’s quickness, could also bust the Thunder’s defense.
Thunder’s Defensive Dynamics
Oklahoma City displayed both offensive efficiency and strength of the defensive and edge. The Lady Wildcats have stood out for their dominant rebounding, 43 per game on average and 48.2 percent shooting efficiency, but they were able to control both ends of the court. Their defense led by Gilgeous-Alexander, who can bother any offense with his presence, and the collective efforts of all team’s defensive plays will be vital in stopping the Mavericks’ dreadful offense.
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
Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Trends
Thunder are 5-0 in their last 5 games.
Oklahoma Thunder are 4-1 in their last 5 games against the spread
Thunder are 19-21 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 2 of Thunder’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 19 of Thunder’ 41 last games at home
Injuries
Dallas Mavericks
Tim Hardaway Jr. SG Is “?” Tuesday vs Oklahoma City, Ankle
Maxi Kleber PF Is out indefinitely, Shoulder
Olivier-Maxence Prosper PF Is “?” Tuesday vs Oklahoma City, Ankle
Oklahoma City Thunder
No reported injuries
Dallas Mavericks vs. Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Picks
Considering the offensive capabilities of both teams and their recent forms, the Over on 216 points seems like a promising bet. While the Thunder are favorites, the Mavericks’ ability to cover the spread in road games makes them an attractive pick against the -3.5 spread.
For those looking at moneyline values or top online betting opportunities, the Mavericks at +136 provide a value proposition considering their competitive nature and playoff experience. The Thunder might be the safer pick straight up, but Dallas’ potential to upset should not be underestimated. Sign up today to make your NBA betting prediction!
Score Prediction: Thunder 112, Mavericks 109.
