Boston Celtics (64-18) vs. Dallas Mavericks (50-32)
As the NBA Finals heated up, the Boston Celtics, with an impressive 64-18 season record, led the series 2-0 against the Dallas Mavericks, who secured a 50-32 standing. Game 3 promises to be a crucial clash as it takes place on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, at 8:30 PM ET at the American Airlines Center, broadcasted live on ABC. Fans and bettors alike are closely monitoring the developments, relying on the best bookie software to place their wagers efficiently.
The Celtics, holding the current lead, show solid numbers from the postseason averaging a total of 111.1 points per game. Their offense is well complemented by their field goal percentage of (48) % and particularly their performance from the three-point line where they average 14.7 shots from the line with a 36.9% success rate. Although, the road game spread record of 19-19 leaves a little more to be desired which could be pivotal in the upcoming away game.
On the other hand, the Mavericks have been fighting, especially when it comes to covering the spread whenever they are playing as the away team in 27 of the 14 games. Scoring 106.9 points per game in the postseason, they are slightly worse in the shooting efficiency of 46.8%. Their free throw shooting, 81.7%, and three-point shooting coming at a 12.3 made shots from downtown per game will be vital in the attempt at trying to decode the Celtics’ defense. Also, their free throw percentage is below average: 72.4%, though in tight games, percentage can be crucial.
Boston Celtics vs. Dallas Mavericks Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, June 12, 2024 at 8:30 PM ET |
| Where: | American Airlines Center |
| TV: | ABC |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Jayson Tatum (SF) vs. Luka Doncic (PG)
Jayson Tatum has remained a standout player for the Celtics scoring 25.3 points and 10.4 rebounds for this postseason. That is why his significant minutes per game are 40.6, his effective role in assists, 5.9, and strong defense contribute to the main factor. But he averages 2.7 turnovers per game and the Mavericks are a team that thrives on other teams’ turnovers.
On that note, Luka Doncic has been absolutely remarkable in the postseason for the Mavericks scoring an average of 28.8 points, 9. 7 rebounds, and 8. 4 assists. His turnover points to a higher turnover rate per game at 3.9 is balanced by his overall scores, and his capacity to score and make key plays under pressure. Therefore, Doncic will be critical in the formulation of the attacks and the control of the game rhythms in the subsequent game.
They have both been occupying the league’s leading scorers list on numerous occasions, and whenever these two get face-off on the basketball court, the battle is not just statistical or who gets how many points and rebounds, the battle of wits takes center stage and can make or mar the game at hand. Another area to watch will be how much floor spacing Tatum is going to be able to get against ball-handling and scoring ability of Doncic.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: Dallas Mavericks -120, Total Odds: 212.5
The betting odds slightly favor the Mavericks at -120, with a -1.5 spread, reflecting their need to capitalize on the home-court advantage to turn the series around. The total set at 212.5 with even odds on the over and under indicates expectations of a tightly contested match, possibly high-scoring considering both teams’ offensive capabilities.
Boston Celtics Betting Trends
The Celtics have been consistent, with the totals going OVER in 4 of their last 5 games, signaling their offensive aggressiveness. However, their equal win-loss spread record in road games this postseason suggests they might struggle to cover the spread in away settings, a trend bettors should consider.
Dallas Mavericks Betting Trends
The Mavericks have managed to maintain a solid record against the spread in road games and have seen the total go OVER in 16 of their last 41 home games. This trend indicates their capability to outscore opponents, especially in critical matchups, making them a formidable opponent in overs markets.
Boston Celtics vs. Dallas Mavericks 6/12/24 Betting Picks
Considering the trends and the critical nature of Game 3 in the series, the Mavericks might just have the edge in this home game. Their need to win to stay viable in the Finals, combined with their solid spread record at home, suggests they could cover the -1.5 spread. For those looking into NBA Finals free picks today, the OVER on 212.5 also seems a promising bet given both teams’ recent scoring trends.
This predicted score reflects the expectation of a tightly contested game where the Mavericks utilize their home-court advantage to narrow the series gap, with both teams likely to push the total over.
