Oklahoma City (34-6) at Dallas (22-19)
- When: Jan 17 2025, 8:30 PM
- Where: American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- TV: KFAA
The Oklahoma City Thunder enter Friday night as 8.5-point favorites against the struggling Dallas Mavericks, with the total set at 225.0. Coming off a dominant performance on Thursday, Oklahoma City looks to maintain their hot streak, while Dallas hopes to overcome injuries and end their losing skid.
Game Preview and Key Insights:
Oklahoma City Thunder:
The Thunder dismantled the Cleveland Cavaliers 134-114 on Thursday, showing why they share the league’s best record at 34-6. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge with 40 points and eight assists, marking his fifth 40-point game of the season. Oklahoma City held Cleveland star Donovan Mitchell to just eight points, showcasing their defensive prowess.
The Thunder have now won four straight and 19 of their last 20 games (excluding the NBA Cup final loss to Milwaukee). Luguentz Dort also played a significant role, scoring 22 points with six 3-pointers while anchoring the defense. With their offense firing on all cylinders and their defense stifling opponents, the Thunder are in prime position to cover the spread at home.
Dallas Mavericks:
The Mavericks, on the other hand, have been plagued by injuries. Luka Doncic remains sidelined with a left calf strain, and Dallas has struggled without him, going 3-8 in his absence. Kyrie Irving has missed seven of the past nine games with a back issue, and his status for Friday is questionable.
Despite the injuries, Dallas has shown flashes of potential. In their 119-116 loss to New Orleans on Wednesday, Daniel Gafford stepped up with a career-high 27 points and 12 rebounds, while Jaden Hardy and Spencer Dinwiddie combined for 41 points. However, the Mavericks’ lack of consistency and depth has made it challenging to compete with elite teams like the Thunder.
Betting Trends and Predictions:
Spread Pick: Oklahoma City -8.5
The Thunder are 16-2 straight up at home this season and 27-10-3 against the spread, making them the NBA’s best cover team. Their recent form, combined with Dallas’ injury struggles, gives Oklahoma City the edge to win and cover.
Total Pick: Over 225.0
With Oklahoma City’s high-scoring offense and Dallas’ defensive vulnerabilities due to injuries, this game has the potential to go over the total. The Thunder have been lighting up the scoreboard, and the Mavericks have enough firepower from their role players to contribute to a high-scoring affair.
Prop Bets to Consider:
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Over 32.5 Points (-110):
SGA has averaged 37.5 points in two games against Dallas this season and is coming off a 40-point performance. He’s a strong candidate to dominate again.
Luguentz Dort Over 2.5 Made Threes (+130):
Dort nailed six triples on Thursday and has been finding his rhythm from deep. This prop offers great value given his recent form.
Daniel Gafford Over 13.5 Points (-105):
Gafford is coming off a career-high performance and will likely be a focal point for Dallas with key players out.
Score Prediction:
Oklahoma City 122, Dallas 110
Expect the Thunder to control the game with their dynamic offense and home-court advantage. The Mavericks will put up a fight, but injuries and inconsistency will make it tough to keep up with Oklahoma City’s pace.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
