In the history of the NBA, only two times has a team clinched the title as a non-top-three seed.
Never has a fifth seed gone all the way to win the NBA Finals.
Nevertheless, the fifth-seeded Mavericks present a formidable challenge led by the prolific duo of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. The outcome of Game 1 on Thursday will be critical to their hopes of defeating the favored Celtics — who hold -225 odds (bet365) to clinch the series.
With a well-stocked armory of offensive and defensive skills, the Celtics seem poised for the championship this year.
This doesn’t predicate that Dallas can’t manage to secure a victory in some games, though.
The Mavericks’ technique has been to capitalize on the midrange opportunities offered by opponents’ defenses, and they have been successful in converting those chances efficiently.
In postseason play, from 17 feet up to just inside the 3-point perimeter, Doncic and Irving boast shooting averages of 65.2 percent and 66.7 percent, respectively.
Even with a potential dip in these high percentages, the pair is likely to continue inflicting damage, evidenced by the Indiana Pacers’ recent success against Boston in this area.
On the road in postseason play, the Mavericks have shown formidable performance, capturing seven of nine games and owning a +4.4 net rating.
The Celtics’ performance at home during these playoffs has been inconsistent at best.
Looking at the bigger picture, Game 1 demands that Boston decides how to counter the Mavericks’ game plan—from challenging the midrange shots to rethinking their own defensive setups.
Betting on the NBA?
The long break since Boston’s last game could lead to some initial rust. Considering the potential for Mavericks’ coach Jason Kidd to introduce strategic diversity, Game 1 provides a prime opportunity to back the underdog.
The suggestion: Mavericks +6.5 (-106, FanDuel)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a No. 5 seed win the NBA Finals?
While a No. 5 seed has never won the NBA Finals, it is not impossible. The performance of such teams is contingent on a variety of factors including matchups, player health, and in-game strategies.
Why are the Mavericks considered dangerous this season?
The Mavericks are considered dangerous due to the efficient offensive performance of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, particularly in the midrange. Their success on the road in the postseason also adds to their threatening position.
Why could Boston face challenges early in the series?
Boston could face challenges due to possible rustiness after a week and a half without a game. Additionally, Jason Kidd’s Mavericks may present unique strategic challenges that Boston will need to address.
What is the suggested bet for Game 1?
The suggested bet for Game 1 is Mavericks +6.5 (-106, FanDuel), indicating that betting on the Mavericks to not lose by more than 6.5 points is a favorable bet.