The Boston Celtics are heavily favored to win Game 1 of the NBA Finals and are expected to secure their 18th championship banner. Despite this, the majority of bets at BetMGM Sportsbook are backing the Dallas Mavericks, with 80% of bets favoring Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving's team to clinch their second NBA title.
Currently, Boston is a -225 favorite to win the championship, while the Celtics are 6 1/2-point favorites in the series opener. However, 63% of the money is on the Mavericks to cover the spread, with Dallas receiving 70% of the bets to win the game outright at +200.
Although the public is leaning towards the Mavericks, the Celtics' odds have remained strong across various sportsbooks. Professional bettors are largely staying out of this series due to limited betting value, but the lines are expected to remain stable.
The Celtics' favorable position is attributed to their consistent performance throughout the 82-game season, establishing them as the top team. Despite facing less challenging competition en route to the Finals, their track record speaks for itself.
One key factor influencing the opening-game spread is the potential return of Boston's Kristaps Porzingis, who has been sidelined since injuring his left calf in the opening round. Porzingis' presence would provide the Celtics with size and a skilled 3-point shooter, posing a challenge for the Mavericks.
Both teams have had ample time to rest and prepare for the series, with the Celtics sweeping the Indiana Pacers and the Mavericks eliminating the Minnesota Timberwolves in five games. The extended break may impact the Celtics more, given their relatively smoother path to the Finals.
As for the Finals MVP race, Jayson Tatum is currently favored at -120, closely followed by Luka Doncic at +200. The odds suggest a competitive series, with the likelihood of it lasting between five and seven games, while a sweep is considered less probable.
Overall, the stage is set for an exciting NBA Finals matchup between the Celtics and the Mavericks, with both teams poised to showcase their talent and compete for the championship title.
