2024 NBA Finals Game 1 Preview - Dallas vs. Boston: Can the Mavericks steal homecourt advantage from the Celtics? June 6, 2024 by Marc Jerbs

On Thursday, June 6, the Dallas Mavericks will play the Boston Celtics in Game 1 of the 2024 NBA Finals. Game time is set 8:30PM EDT at the TD Garden in Boston, MA. Both teams have emerged from the rigorous playoff battles, demonstrating resilience, skill, and star power.

Celtics' SF Jayson Tatum has led his team in the postseason with 26 point per game. Tatum's scoring prowess and versatility on both ends of the floor make him a formidable force. His leadership and clutch performances will be crucial for Boston's success. Teammate SG Jaylen Brown has been on a tear during the playoffs and His ability to attack the rim, hit perimeter shots, and defend multiple positions adds depth to the Celtics' lineup, crucial for countering Dallas' offense.

Mavericks' PG Luka Dončić has dazzled with his playmaking and scoring abilities, averaging nearly a triple-double in the playoffs. His vision, ball-handling, and clutch shooting make him a constant threat, especially against Boston's defense. Adding intrigue to the series is former Celtics Kyrie Irving. His dazzling handles and scoring in isolation are crucial for the Mavericks. His experience and chemistry with Dončić will be key in breaking down Boston's defensive schemes.

Injury Report

Dallas Mavericks

PLAYER	POSITION	STATUS
Luka Doncic (knee / ankle)	PG	Game Time Decision
Olivier-Maxence Prosper (ankle)	PG	Game Time Decision

Minnesota Timberwolves

PLAYER	POSITION	STATUS
No injured players reported.

Sports Bet Odds

The Celtics are the favorites to win the game. Here are our latest odds:

• The Celtics are favored by 6.5 points, with a money line of -245.
• The Mavericks are the underdogs by 6.5 points, with a money line of +205.
• The over/under is set at 215 points, with the over at -110 and the under at -110.

Celtics' head coach Joe Mazzulla have relied on their defensive identity and balanced offense to overcome tough Eastern Conference opponents. Their passionate home-court advantage at TD Garden will be a significant asset. Mavericks' head coach Jason Kidd and the Mavericks have relied on their potent offensive strategies and the dynamic duo of Dončić and Irving. Their high-scoring games and clutch performances through the Western Conference set the stage for a compelling Finals.

Expect an intense and high-energy start to the series as both teams aim to set the tone. Boston will look to leverage their defensive tenacity and home-court advantage, while Dallas will depend on the brilliance of Dončić and Irving to drive their offense. The first game often sets the psychological tone for the series, making it a pivotal encounter.

Fans can anticipate a showcase of elite basketball talent and strategic prowess as the Celtics and Mavericks begin their quest for the 2024 NBA Championship. The excitement is palpable as the journey to crown a new champion starts at TD Garden.

NBA Postseason Team Statistics

Dallas Mavericks		Boston Celtics
107.9	Point Per Game	111.4
103.9	Points Allowed	101.3
47.1%	FG% Per Game	48.0%
43.1	Rebounds Per Game	43.7
22.4	Assists Per Game	23.6