NBA Game 2s

It’s been said that a series doesn’t truly start until a team wins a game on the road. While there are certainly exceptions to the rule, namely Cleveland’s last series vs. the Magic, a 7-game marathon in which the home team won every game, it can’t be denied that the Mavs and Cavs both have a chance to make their second round series a whole lot more interesting tonight 🍿

• Both squads struggled in their Game 1s vs. formidable top-seeded opponents in the Thunder and Celtics. Their beatdowns looked eerily similar on the scoreboard 😂

Mavs-Thunder is the series that was expected to be the far more competitive of the two, making the Game 1 blowout more surprising. Dallas’ offensive formula is incredibly heliocentric, revolving almost entirely around the on-ball exploits of its two superstars, Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving ⭐️

• Luka’s struggles have been noticeable throughout this young playoff run, as he is clearly dealing with a knee injury

• While his counting numbers are still exemplary, his efficiency has been a far cry from the dominant postseason performer we’ve seen in years past. Luka will need to get comfortable fast to give Dallas a legitimate chance in this one

The Thunder’s success on Doncic in Game 1 can’t entirely be attributed to his health, as OKC possesses one of the top cadres of perimeter defenders in the league. Their combination of youthful energy, high-level switchability and superior length makes the Thunder a nightmare for opposing stars. Look for a huge series from Lu Dort on the defensive end 🔒

• On the offensive end, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander carried the load on Tuesday, looking like the top-flight MVP contender he’s been all season for the Thunder

• The Mavs seemed unprepared for SGA’s off-the-dribble verve, offering up a variety of less-than-stellar defenders for him to exploit

Let’s pivot to Celtics-Cavs, where Cleveland looked as outmatched as most expected on Monday. Boston appears to simply be a different caliber of team from the rest of the East, and is rolling through the conference playoffs with ease. While Cleveland has some solid defensive options in Evan Mobley and Isaac Okoro to slow down the Celtics’ star wings, they will be hard-pressed to keep up offensively 😬

• Their lone answer for Boston’s legion of capable scorers is Donovan Mitchell, who has been producing at a truly elite level these playoffs

• Mitchell put the team on his back to close out Orlando last round, and will need to do the same to even keep this series competitive

For the Celtics, it had to be a relief to comfortably win a game in which Tatum shot so inefficiently. The depth of this Boston roster was on full display, as the championship favorite (-135) hasn’t missed a beat since Kristaps Porzingis’ injury. Derrick White continued to shoot the lights out, making some Celtics history in the process 🔥

• The biggest story for Boston was Jaylen Brown, who has emerged as a more complete scorer following last season’s flameout vs. Miami

• His combination of elite athleticism, silky jump-shooting and an improved handle had the Cavs looking helpless all game

Cavs vs. Celtics Betting Preview (subject to change)

• Spread: Celtics -13.5

• Moneyline: Celtics -1000, Cavs +660

• Over/Under: 212

• When: 7PM on ESPN

Mavs vs. Thunder Betting Preview 

• Spread: Thunder -5

• Moneyline: Thunder -200, Mavs +168

• Over/Under: 218.5

• When: 9:30PM on ESPN

Trivia Question: Luka and SGA ranked No. 1 and 2 respectively in total points scored this season. Who finished third?

For My Parlay Gurus

Even on a gimpy knee, Luka is simply too talented to continue playing this poorly. I like him and Kyrie to respond in a tightly contested victory, with Dallas capitalizing more effectively on its size advantage in the paint. Out in the East, it’s clear from the comically high spread that no one is giving Cleveland a chance. Add my name to the list — I think Boston scores another easy W at home 👇

• Celtics -13.5 vs Cavs: -112

• Mavs +5 @ Thunder: -108

$100 on this bet would win you $265 — if we hit, make sure you email [email protected] for a chance to win an Overtime hoodie*. Many will enter, only some will win 😉

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Trivia Answer: Giannis Antetokounmpo placed third in total points this year

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