Dallas Mavericks (50-32) vs. Oklahoma City Thunder (57-25)
Dallas Mavericks vs. Oklahoma City Thunder Game 5 5/15/24 – The NBA West Semifinals intensify as the Dallas Mavericks, holding a 50-32 record, square off against the Oklahoma City Thunder, who closed their season at an impressive 57-25. Set for Wednesday, May 15, 2024, this pivotal Game 5 could edge the Mavericks closer to a series win, currently leading 2-1. As both teams clash at the Paycom Center, the stakes are high, and this matchup is rapidly becoming a handicapper’s favorite pick given the series’ unpredictability and high tension.
The Mavericks have shown this season that they can score many points, averaging 117.9 points per game with a good 48.1% shooting from the field. Their ability from behind the arc should get your attention because they take 14.6 threes with a 36.9% success rate every game. Conversely, it is Dallas’ winning record against the spread in the road games that testify to their effective tactics, since they have recorded an impressive 27-14. This tactical planning will be very important as they will be up against a strong Thunder team on their home court.
When looking at the other side, Thunder slightly exceeded Mavericks average of 120.1 points per game and lead in field goal percentage at 49.9%. They can hit three pointers much better at the rate of 38.9%, as well as score free throws almost flawlessly, at 82.5%. Offensively, they’ve made more steals and blocks per game than Dallas, which shows their defensive plays could be very disturbing for the Mavericks’ offensive rhythm, which has been the key to their recent successes.
Dallas Mavericks vs. Oklahoma City Thunder Game 5 5/15/24 Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at 9:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Paycom Center |
| TV: | TNT |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Kyrie Irving (PG) vs. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (PG)
Kyrie Irving was one of the driving centers of the Mavericks team, and he played in 58 games on average with 25.6 points per game and 5.2 assists. It is his speed and scoring technique that make him a significant part of the team’s offense, but his 1.8 turnover per game shouldn’t give us too much worry at the beginning of the series, at least against a defensive minded Thunder team.
On the contrary, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been nothing but brilliant for the Thunder, with an average of 30.1 points per game. Apart from the fact that his all-around performance is shown by his defensive showing of 2 steals and a half block per game. Shai’s end-to-end influence is what makes him the cradle of any defender, including Irving, the epitome of a great opponent.
The on-court clash between Irving and Gilgeous-Alexander is definitely going to be a focal point, as both the guards play a key role in their teams’ offense. Their histrionics will probably be the main factor in the development of the game’s flow and outcomes, each this is possible by individual, inspired feats of play.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
While the betting odds and spreads remain undetermined, the matchup’s intensity and the series’ current standings suggest a closely contested game. Bettors should keep a keen eye on updates as the game approaches, considering the Thunder’s recent form and the Mavericks’ strategic road game strengths.
Dallas Mavericks Betting Trends
The Mavericks’ recent form has been effective, with a 3-2 record in both overall and against the spread in the last five games. Their capacity to cover spreads in away games implies that they might still surprise people, especially with the totals going OVER in a large number of their recent games, which means that they will be involved in high-scoring affairs.
Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Trends
The Thunder are undefeated in their last five games and cover the spread in four of those games, which shows their ability to perform well in crunch time. Their house record of exceeding totals indicates that they may be a team that features high-scoring contests, hence bettors might lean more towards the OVER once more.
Dallas Mavericks vs. Oklahoma City Thunder 5/15/24 Betting Picks
Given both teams’ offensive strengths and recent performances, this game is likely to be high-scoring, with momentum swings dictated by key player performances. The Thunder’s home-court advantage and consistent form make them slight favorites.
In conclusion, considering the strategic depth and key player matchups, the Thunder might edge out the Mavericks in a close contest. For bettors, keeping an eye on the point spread and possibly favoring the OVER could be wise choices in what promises to be an electrifying game, fulfilling the top NBA Semifinals free predictions.
Free Pick and Prediction: Oklahoma City Thunder 118, Dallas Mavericks 112