Game 1 of the 2024 NBA Finals between the Boston Celtics and the Dallas Mavericks was a one-sided affair, with the Celtics securing the first win in the series. The Celtics dominated from the start, maintaining a comfortable lead throughout the game, and their defense was particularly strong, limiting the Mavericks’ scoring opportunities.
Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 22 points, but the game was truly marked by the triumphant return of 7-foot-3 center Kristaps Porzingis. Overcoming a month-long absence due to a calf injury, he made a remarkable comeback, contributing 20 points and three blocks in the Celtics’ 107-89 win over Dallas.
Luka Doncic, the Mavericks’ star player, scored 30 points, 10 rebounds, and a season-low one assist in the loss. Despite Doncic’s impressive individual performance, the Mavericks were unable to overcome the Celtics’ strong defense.
After an thrilling Game 1 performance, the Boston Celtics are heavy favorites to win the 2024 NBA Finals, according to BetMGM.
Mavericks’ machinations: How a $750K tanking decision helped Dallas reach the NBA Finals with Dereck Lively II
Odds to win the 2024 NBA Championship
The Boston Celtics are favorites to defeat the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA Finals, according to the BetMGM basketball odds. Looking to wager? Check out the best mobile sports betting apps offering sports betting promos in 2024.
Odds as of Saturday afternoon.
-
Celtics (-400)
-
Mavericks (+320)
Ready to bet? Place a legal sports wager with BetMGM here.
2024 NBA Finals: Schedule, how to watch
|
Games |
Location |
Date/Time/Results |
TV/Streaming |
|
Game 1 |
TD Garden, Boston |
Boston 107, Dallas 89 |
ABC, ESPN+ |
|
Game 2 |
TD Garden, Boston |
Sunday, June 9 at 8 p.m. ET |
ABC, ESPN+ |
|
Game 3 |
American Airlines Center, Dallas |
Wednesday, June 12 at 8:30 p.m. ET |
ABC, ESPN+ |
|
Game 4 |
American Airlines Center, Dallas |
Friday, June 14 at 8:30 p.m. ET |
ABC, ESPN+ |
|
Game 5(If necessary) |
TD Garden, Boston |
Monday, June 17 at 8:30 p.m. ET |
ABC, ESPN+ |
|
Game 6(If necessary) |
American Airlines Center, Dallas |
Thursday, June 20 at 8:30 p.m. ET |
ABC, ESPN+ |
|
Game 7(If necessary) |
TD Garden, Boston |
Sunday, June 23 at 8 p.m. ET |
ABC, ESPN+ |
Looking for local streaming options to catch the NBA Finals? Check out USA TODAY Home Internet for broadband service plans in your area.
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: 2024 NBA Finals: Odds to win the NBA championship after Game 1