Mavericks vs. Thunder: Predictions, odds, TV schedule for Western Conference Semifinals
The second game of the Western Conference semifinals between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Dallas Mavericks will take place on Thursday night at the Paycom Center. The Thunder are currently leading the series 1-0 and are expected to face another exciting match from the youngest team in the playoffs.
The Thunder's Lu Dort showcased his defensive prowess, holding Mavericks star Luka Doncic to just 19 points in Dallas' 117-95 loss to Oklahoma City. Doncic, dealing with a sprained right knee, struggled to find his usual rhythm in Oklahoma City.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder's shining star, led the Thunder in scoring with an impressive 29 points, nine rebounds, and nine assists. His stellar performance was instrumental in the Thunder's fifth straight playoffs win; a feat that should make every Thunder fan proud. In addition to Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren also played an essential role in securing the victory, contributing 19 points and seven rebounds to the team's overall performance.
Updated NBA playoff bracket: Results, schedule, and full NBA postseason picture
West Semifinals: Dallas Mavericks vs. Oklahoma City Thunder predictions
Pickswise: Thunder take Game 2
Filip Tomic writes: "The -21 recorded in Tuesday’s game is likely going to be Doncic’s worst +/- performance of this series. But still, Oklahoma City just looks like a way more balanced team than the Mavericks do. Going back home will be Dallas’s best chance of getting a win in this series. Go with OKC in Game 2."
NBA.com: Thunder in seven
Michael C. Wright writes: "Brace yourself for plenty of bouts of brilliance from Doncic and Irving. Pressure won’t affect them. But the question is whether they’ll be able to maintain that standard of play an entire series. That’ll be tough against OKC, which finished the regular season ranked fourth in defensive rating. Gilgeous-Alexander has been a steady performer all season with a supporting cast that fits almost perfectly. The Thunder are deeper and healthier overall."
The Oklahoman: Thunder in seven
Justin Martinez writes: "Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving are lethal on offense, and Dallas’ defense has improved significantly since it added Daniel Gafford and P.J. Washington at the trade deadline. Still, I’m giving OKC the edge. Lu Dort will at least make life difficult for Doncic, and Chet Holmgren will prevent any finishes in the paint."
West Semifinals: Dallas Mavericks vs. Oklahoma City Thunder Game 2 betting lines, odds
The Oklahoma City Thunder are favored to defeat the Dallas Mavericks in Game 2, according to the BetMGM odds.
Spread: Oklahoma City (-5)
Moneyline: Oklahoma City (-200); Dallas (+165)
Total Over/Under: 218.5
Looking to wager? Check out the best mobile sports betting apps offering betting promos in 2024.
West Semifinals: Dallas Mavericks vs. Oklahoma City Thunder schedule
Games | Location | Date/Time | TV/Streaming |
Game 1 | Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, OK | Tuesday, May 7 at 9:30 p.m. ET | TNT, Fubo |
Game 2 | Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, OK | Thursday, May 9 at 9:30 p.m. ET | ESPN, ESPN+ |
Game 3 | American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX | Saturday, May 11 at 3:30 p.m. ET | ABC, ESPN+ |
Game 4 | American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX | Monday, May 13 at 9:30 p.m. ET | TNT, Fubo |
Game 5 (If necessary) | Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, OK | Wednesday, May 15 at TBD | TNT, Fubo |
Game 6(If necessary) | American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX | Saturday, May 18 at 8:30 p.m. ET | ESPN, ESPN+ |
Game 7(If necessary) | Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, OK | Monday, May 20 at 8:30 p.m. ET | TNT, Fubo |
How to watch: Catch all the NBA Play-In Tournament action on ESPN+
We occasionally recommend interesting products and services. If you make a purchase by clicking one of the links, we may earn an affiliate fee. USA TODAY Network newsrooms operate independently, and this doesn’t influence our coverage.
Gannett may earn revenue from sports betting operators for audience referrals to betting services. Sports betting operators have no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. Terms apply, see operator site for Terms and Conditions. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available. Call the National Council on Problem Gambling 24/7 at 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ, OH), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN). Must be 21 or older to gamble. Sports betting and gambling are not legal in all locations. Be sure to comply with laws applicable where you reside.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Mavericks vs. Thunder: Predictions and odds for Game 2
