Golden State (27-26) at Dallas (28-26)
- When: Feb 12 2025, 9:30 PM
- Where: American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- TV: ESPN
Game Preview
Golden State favored by 7.0 | Total set at 233.5
The Golden State Warriors aim to continue their strong form with Jimmy Butler in the lineup as they head to Dallas to take on a depleted Mavericks squad. With the All-Star break approaching, Dallas is limping toward the finish line, while Golden State looks to keep building momentum.
Golden State Warriors
The addition of Jimmy Butler has already sparked new life into the Warriors. Since acquiring the six-time All-Star from Miami, Golden State is 2-0 with him on the floor. His two-way presence has provided an immediate impact, as he posted 20 points, nine rebounds, six assists, and four steals in Monday’s 125-111 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks.
Despite the early success, Butler acknowledged he’s still not in peak condition after spending much of the last month suspended in Miami.
“I haven’t played basketball in a month,” Butler said. “My wind is nowhere close to where it needs to be. I won’t miss free throws as much. I’ll have lift on my jump shots. Right now, I’m just gassed. I’m glad we’re winning. But I got to get in better shape.”
Butler’s presence has also taken some pressure off Stephen Curry, who is thriving offensively. The former MVP has scored 30 or more in four straight games, including a season-high-tying 38 against the Bucks. He has knocked down 14 three-pointers over the last two games, benefiting from the additional spacing and playmaking Butler brings.
With the Mavericks dealing with injuries across the board, expect Golden State to take advantage and push the tempo. Defensively, the Warriors had a season-high 16 steals against Milwaukee and will look to cause similar chaos against a short-handed Dallas squad.
Dallas Mavericks
Few teams need the upcoming All-Star break more than Dallas. The Mavericks have been dealing with injuries and roster adjustments since their blockbuster trade that sent Luka Doncic to the Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis.
Davis made an immediate impact in his debut but suffered a left adductor strain and is expected to be sidelined for multiple weeks. To make matters worse, center Daniel Gafford sprained his right knee in Monday’s 129-128 overtime loss to the Kings and will be re-evaluated in two weeks.
Kyrie Irving has shouldered the offensive burden in Doncic’s absence, scoring 30 points against Sacramento, but the Mavericks were missing P.J. Washington (ankle) and Caleb Martin (hip), making their depth even thinner.
Head coach Jason Kidd acknowledged the team’s struggles but emphasized the need to keep pushing forward.
“The games keep coming,” Kidd said. “No one feels sorry for us. That’s just the way the league is. … The group in that locker room has character. We’re being tested right now.”
With so many players sidelined, Dallas will have to rely on Klay Thompson, Spencer Dinwiddie, and Olivier-Maxence Prosper to play larger roles. The Mavericks have lost four of their past six and are struggling to find consistency.
Betting Prediction and Analysis
Golden State has all the momentum heading into this matchup, while Dallas is running out of healthy bodies. The Warriors’ defense has stepped up lately, and Butler’s arrival gives them a much-needed secondary playmaker to support Curry.
The Mavericks will need a huge game from Irving to stay competitive, but with Davis and Gafford out, their interior defense could be exposed. Expect Golden State to dominate inside and control the pace.
Best Bets:
Golden State -7: With Dallas missing key players, the Warriors have a clear edge.
Under 233.5: The Mavericks’ offensive firepower is depleted, and Golden State has been playing better defensively.
Stephen Curry Over 27.5 Points: With Butler drawing defensive attention, Curry should continue his hot streak.
The Warriors are in a great spot to cover the spread and continue their winning streak with Butler in the lineup.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
