The Boston Celtics, having an impressive season with a 64-18 record, take on the Dallas Mavericks, who charted a respectable 50-32 in the regular season, in Game 3 of the NBA Finals. Leading the series 2-0, the Celtics look poised and determined to extend their dominance. The Mavericks, hosting at the American Airlines Center, will lean heavily on Luka Doncic, their star point guard, who has been exceptional this postseason. This matchup is attracting attention from top betting sites in Canada, as bettors anticipate another epic showdown in this playoff series.
Boston Celtics vs. Dallas Mavericks
Date & Time: Wednesday, June 12, 2024 at 8:30 PM ET
Location: American Airlines Center
TV: ABC
Boston Celtics vs. Dallas Mavericks Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Celtics | +101 | +1.5 (-110) | 212.5 over -110 |
| Mavericks | -120 | -1.5 (-110) | 212.5 under -110 |
Boston Celtics Analysis
The Celtics have presented the durable attacking starters across the playoffs, scoring 111.1 point per game. Field goal percentage stands at 48% while the three-point field goal has equally played a significant role with the team boasting of a 36.9 % average. With 14. The three pointers average of 7 per game erases any defense that an opponent may have lined up.
On defense, Boston plays fairly well-rounded basketball and restricts the production of the opposing teams on average while managing to control the boards, pulling down 43. 9 rebounds per game. But their road performance in terms of the spread stands at 19-19 and this therefore paints a picture of some vulnerability when they are outside their home arena hence may affect tonight’s game.
Jayson Tatum has been a backbone in the Celtics as his postseason averages stand at a figure of 25.3 points and 10.4 rebounds per game. For the Boston Celtics to take the third straight win, stiffness in both ends of the area will help in the strategies that include Sloan’s playmaking prowess.
Dallas Mavericks Analysis
Offensively the Mavericks had been scoring nearly one point less than the Celtics having a total of 106.9 points per game. They shot a reasonable field goal percentage of 46.8% and 3PT of 36.7% which, while good, is slightly lower than Boston’s. To counter Boston they will have to continue utilizing their home-court setting and increase shooting accuracy.
Defensively, Dallas has been worse compared to Boston more often, which might be an issue. They yield a large amount of points and have a less ideal defensive rebounding, maybe granting Boston more attempts.
Luka Doncic is the team’s engine as he averages 28 of the Dallas team. 8 points and 9. racing to six-point, nine rebounds per game this Postseason. His playmaking skills and scoring will be required, but he cannot afford for the bulk of it to be shut down like the Celtics defense will provide.
Boston Celtics vs. Dallas Mavericks Against the Spread
Boston has shown they can maintain their performance under playoff pressure, evidenced by their recent 4-1 record in total points going OVER. Their ability to perform in crucial moments makes them a slight favorite against the spread, despite being the underdogs.
The Mavericks have a better track record at home against the spread (27-14), and with the stakes as high as they are, expect them to push Boston to the limit. Their recent OVER trends in total points also indicate a high-scoring game is likely.
Boston Celtics vs. Dallas Mavericks Free Pick
Based on odds, trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: Boston Celtics (+101). Despite being underdogs, their current form and the high stakes make them a solid pick to take a commanding lead in the series.
Spread: Boston Celtics +1.5. Given their ability to perform under pressure and their offensive firepower, they are likely to cover the spread.
Total: Over 212.5. Both teams have trended towards high-scoring games, and with offensive talents like Tatum and Doncic, expect plenty of points on the board.
Predicted Score: Boston Celtics 110, Dallas Mavericks 105
Concluding, while the Mavericks will put up a strong fight, particularly with the backing of their home crowd, the Celtics’ current momentum and superior offensive stats make them the more reliable NBA Finals picks and prediction. Betting on Boston to win and cover the spread seems the most prudent strategy for this pivotal Game 3.
