The Nuggets vs. Timberwolves series isn't the only Western series to feature youth versus experience. The other semifinal, which will pit the No. 1 Oklahoma City Thunder against the No. 5 Dallas Mavericks, should feature similarly fascinating trends and storylines.'
Dallas came on strong in the final weeks of the regular season, earning the league's best post-All Star Break record. Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving give the Mavericks a strong cache of experience, playmaking, and star power.'
Oklahoma City, on the other hand, is a young team with minimal postseason experience. The Thunder almost resemble a college team, with deemphasized star power in a smaller media market, but bet against them at your own peril. They're the No. 1 seed for a reason, and they've yet to lose a game this postseason.
It's time for another border battle between Texas and Oklahoma. Here are the NBA odds – and a few bets I like – for the Thunder-Mavericks series.'
Thunder vs. Mavericks: Game 1 Odds
- Thunder -160
- Mavericks +135
- Game 1 Spread: Thunder -3.5
- Game 1 Over/Under: 216.5
- Series Price: Thunder -120; Mavericks +100