The Boston Celtics are currently the heavy favorites to win the NBA Finals, with -225 odds at BetMGM to defeat the Dallas Mavericks. Despite facing tough competition in the Western Conference, the Mavericks managed to secure their spot in the Finals after defeating the Minnesota Timberwolves.
While Boston was hoping for a longer series between Minnesota and Dallas, they clinched their Finals berth by sweeping the Indiana Pacers. With odds returning just $4.44 on a $10 bet for a Celtics victory, Dallas stands at +180 to win the NBA Finals.
The Mavericks made key moves at the trade deadline by acquiring P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford. Both players have played integral roles in the Mavericks’ playoff run, especially with Maxi Kleber sidelined due to a shoulder injury. Kleber returned for Game 5 against the Timberwolves and contributed to their victory.
On the other hand, Boston is expecting Kristaps Porzingis to return for the Finals after he suffered a calf strain in the first round against Miami Heat. Although Porzingis has been out of action so far during this season, Boston has performed exceptionally well without him, boasting a 12-2 record in postseason games up until now. The Celtics started off as favorites to win this year’s title following Porzingis’ acquisition and Jrue Holiday’s arrival earlier this season.
According to oddsmakers, there is potential for a short series with a Boston victory in five games priced at +300 as their favored exact series outcome. A six-game series win is at +350, while a seven-game victory stands at +450 if it were to happen against Dallas during these playoffs. In contrast, an NBA sweep of four games is priced at +500 if that were ever possible.
For Dallas fans hoping for an upset victory over Boston during these playoffs, they can root for an extended series where they stand at +400 for a six-game win or +600 if it goes all seven games.
In conclusion, both teams have shown impressive performance throughout their respective seasons and will face each other during this year’s NBA Finals with high stakes on both sides of their matchup
