Oklahoma City Thunder (35-16) vs. Dallas Mavericks (28-23)
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Dallas Mavericks 2/10/24 – The Oklahoma City Thunder take on the Dallas Mavericks on Saturday in a Western Conference showdown. According to the best sports handicappers, the Thunder have exceeded expectations this season behind the brilliant play of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, while the Mavericks have battled inconsistency but remain dangerous led by Luka Don?i?.
The Thunder come into this game having won 3 of their last 5 contests. They boast an efficient offense, averaging 120.8 points per game on 50.1% shooting from the field. OKC crashes the boards well, pulling down 41.4 rebounds per game. Defensively, they force turnovers with 8.2 steals per game. The Thunder will need to continue their balanced production to grab a road win over the Mavs.
The Mavericks sport a 118.2 point per game offense on 47.5% shooting. They bombard opponents from deep, knocking down 15.2 threes per contest. Dallas also controls the glass at a high rate with 41.5 boards per outing. Their defense has room for improvement, an area they’ll need to sharpen up to best the visiting Thunder.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Dallas Mavericks 2/10/24 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, February 10, 2024 at 3:00 PM ET |
| Where: | American Airlines Center |
| TV: | NBAt |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (PG) vs. Luka Doncic (PG)
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is enjoying a breakout campaign, posting 31.1 points, 5.6 rebounds and 6.6 assists per game while shooting efficiently from all levels. An exceptional playmaker with deception off the dribble, Gilgeous-Alexander excels at getting to his spots and finishing creatively at the rim. His length bothers opponents on defense as well. He’ll need to continue his two-way brilliance for the Thunder to emerge victorious.
Luka Don?i? scoring at 34.5 points per contest, while also chipping in 8.8 rebounds and 9.4 assists each night. His step back three point shot is lethal and he lives at the free throw line. Don?i? is crafty finding holes in defenses to exploit. Though not a lockdown defender, his size, vision and quick hands help him make plays on that end. Containing Don?i? will be critical if the Thunder hope to steal a win on the road.
The individual matchup between Gilgeous-Alexander and Don?i? features two of the brightest young superstars in the NBA. While they play different styles, both thrive by leveraging their unique playmaking gifts. Whichever player is able to dictate the terms of engagement more effectively stands to lift their team to victory in this marquee showdown.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
Given the current betting odds are yet to be determined, analyzing the team’s performances and trends is crucial for making informed predictions. The dynamic play of both teams’ key players will significantly influence the odds as the game approaches.
Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Trends
The Thunder have performed below expectations against the spread recently, going just 1-4 ATS over their last 5 outings. OKC is a respectable 14-10 against the number away from home however. The totals have gone Over in 3 of the Thunder’s previous 5 matchups. With two efficient offenses on display, an uptempo shootout could unfold.
Dallas Mavericks Betting Trends
Dallas sits at 2-3 against the spread across their last 5 contests. For the year, the Mavs are an impressive 15-9 versus the number on their home floor. The totals have gone Over just once across Dallas’ previous 5 outings. They play at the league’s 13th fastest pace however, so points can pile up quickly with their offensive talent.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Dallas Mavericks 2/10/24 Betting Picks
Looking at both teams’ recent form and key player performances, this game promises to be closely contested. The Thunder’s offensive efficiency coupled with Mavericks three-point shooting ability should produce plenty of scoring; however, defense and turnovers could play key roles in deciding the winner.
Given both teams’ respective strengths and weaknesses, my prediction leans slightly in favor of the Oklahoma City Thunder. Their superior field goal and free throw percentage could give them an edge; however, Dallas Mavericks’ ability to shoot from long range and Luka Doncic’s all-around game may tilt things in their favor.
Although this game could go either way, the Thunder’s slightly better balanced attack and defensive capabilities might just nudge them past the Mavericks in what should be an exciting encounter. Bettors looking for top basketball tips today should keep an eye out for Thunder’s recent form and potential high scoring game but keep an eye out for surprise from Mavericks especially at home!
Free Pick and Prediction: Oklahoma City Thunder 115, Dallas Mavericks 112.