2023 NBA May 14 Betting Predictions
Tuesday's NBA Playoffs features a pair of crucial Game 4 matchups. The Celtics are looking for a 3-1 series lead in Cleveland. Meanwhile, the Mavs are 2-1 up on the Thunder.
Boston Celtics at Cleveland Cavaliers (Celtics 2-1)
In this series, the winning team has consistently kept their opponent under 100 points, highlighting the Celtics' strong defensive prowess against the Cavaliers. Maintaining this defensive intensity is crucial for the Celtics in the upcoming game, especially considering their impressive playoff record of allowing just 95.9 points per game. On the flip side, the Cavaliers have struggled to breach the 100-point mark in the playoffs.
Therefore, it wouldn't be surprising if the Celtics once again restrict their opponents, aiding their efforts to cover the spread. Despite averaging 107.4 points per game themselves, the Celtics rely on Brown and Tatum's dynamic performances to secure victories. With these two players in top form, Boston becomes a formidable force, making it imperative for them to continue their scoring prowess for a chance to dominate the series. As long as Brown and Tatum maintain their stellar performances, the Celtics are poised to cover the spread and maintain their winning streak.
Donovan Mitchell has been on fire throughout this series, consistently racking up over 30 points per game. However, he could use some support from his teammates. The Cavaliers are relying on players like Mobley and Darius Garland to step up and ease the scoring burden on Mitchell. Nevertheless, Mitchell remains the linchpin of their offence, capable of delivering standout performances whenever he hits the court.
With impressive point totals of 33, 29, and 33 in the three games so far, Mitchell needs to replicate that level of performance in the upcoming game. Given Garland's limited scoring impact, it's imperative for Mitchell to maintain his scoring streak for the Cavaliers to stand a chance of winning. If he continues his scoring spree, the Cavaliers might just pull off a victory in this crucial game.
The Celtics hit the road and got their defence back on track in the Game 3 victory and I expect them to keep the Cavs quiet in Game 4. The Under is also 4-2 in their last 6 games and 5-1 when they play away from the TD Garden. Meanwhile, the Under has saluted in 4 of the last 5 meetings.
Stadium Record
Cleveland are 7-3 in their last 10 at home. Boston are 2-6 in their last 8 games.
Head to Head Record
The head to head is tied 5-5 in the last 10.
Best Bet
Oklahoma City Thunder at Dallas Mavericks (Mavericks 2-1)
The Thunder put up a decent fight in Game 3, but stumbled in the crucial moments. It says that small adjustments are needed moving forward. They had a respectable shooting performance, hitting 46.9 percent from the field and 33.3 percent from beyond the arc, with a solid 78.9 percent from the free-throw line. However, they fell short in the rebounding department and committed slightly more turnovers.
Gilgeous-Alexander, despite not replicating his Game 1 form, showcased his defensive prowess with five blocked shots, although he struggled with turnovers and fouls. Williams displayed efficiency on offence but also had some turnovers, while Holmgren contributed defensively with four blocked shots. On the flip side, Giddey and Dort faced challenges in finding their rhythm, hindering the team's performance. The Thunder's struggles on the boards highlight the need for collective effort in the absence of a dominant big man. To bounce back, they must prioritize winning the rebound battle and tightening up their defence against the Mavericks to cover the spread effectively.
The Mavericks had a tough shooting night, hitting just 42.2 percent from the field and 33.3 percent from three-point range, with a subpar 64 percent from the free-throw line. Despite their shooting woes, they managed to secure the win, thanks to their dominance on the boards, grabbing a total of 48 rebounds, including 15 on the offensive end, providing ample opportunities for second-chance points. Doncic delivered a solid performance, excelling in shooting and rebounding, although he struggled with turnovers.
Irving also had a strong shooting night but faced similar challenges with turnovers. Washington led the team in scoring and Gafford showcased efficiency in shooting, yet both players could have contributed more to the team's success. While the Mavericks demonstrated prowess in rebounding and generated steals, they need to improve their shooting efficiency and free-throw shooting to secure crucial points, especially in close games. To cover the spread effectively, they must focus on efficient shooting and winning the battle on the boards once again.
I think the Mavs are tough to beat at home, especially considering their 10-2 ATS on home court. They'll be desperate to make it a 3-1 series lead before heading back to OKC and the Doncic/Irving combo should be too much for the Thunder's defence to handle.
Stadium Record
Dallas are 6-4 in their last 10 at home. Oklahoma City are 1-3 in their last 4 games.
Head to Head Record
In the last 10 meetings, the Thunder are 6-4.
Best Bet
