Boston Celtics vs Dallas Mavericks: Boston Won Their Earlier Meeting With Dallas

• The Boston Celtics have a narrow lead on first after losing back-to-back games.
• The Dallas Mavericks look to push their win streak to eight games in a row.
• Boston won their earlier meeting with Dallas, 125-112.

Boston Celtics vs Dallas Mavericks Predictions and Picks

The Boston Celtics and the Dallas Mavericks are two teams on opposite runs of form. Currently first in the Eastern Conference, the Boston Celtics have just a half-game lead over second after going 5-5 over their last 10 games.

The Celtics are coming off of a disappointing loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder in their last game. Where they are usually an overwhelming offensive force, Boston allowed 150 points in their most recent loss. On the other hand, the Dallas Mavericks most recently earned a close but solid win over their Texas rivals.

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Head-to-Head: Boston Celtics vs Dallas Mavericks

Injury Report

Spread: Boston Celtics -2.0 (-110) @ bet365

The Boston Celtics and the Dallas Mavericks will be putting on a star-studded matchup as Jayson Tatum and Luka Doncic, two of the NBA's best scorers, face off! The Celtics have now lost two games in a row, remaining winless through two games of their four-game road trip. The Dallas Mavericks have now won seven straight games, kicking off their short two-game home stand against the Celtics.

The Boston Celtics' defense has been dreadful through their last two games. They've allowed their opponents to average 136.5 points on 58.2% from the field and 52.9% from three-point range. Through the Dallas Mavericks' seven-game winning run, they've held their opponents to 112.3 points per game on 47.5% from the field and 32.4% from three-point range - while also committing just 9.7 turnovers per game.

The Boston Celtics have lost three games in a row just once this season, owing to the quality of their offense and ability to make adjustments. Dallas should pose a tough problem with Luka Doncic at the lead, but an improved defensive focus and a half-court-oriented game should work in Boston's favor.

Total: Over 229.5 (-110) @ WynnBet

Both the Boston Celtics and the Dallas Mavericks are capable offensive teams, but they're also capable on the defensive side of the court. On average, the Boston Celtics combine for 231.9 points on a plus-5.3 points margin. The Mavericks average a combined total of 222.9 points per game on a plus-2.3 points differential.

On the season the Boston Celtics are averaging 118.6 points per game (1st in the NBA) while allowing just 113.3 points per game (15th in the NBA). The Dallas Mavericks are less capable offensively, averaging 112.6 points per game (19th in the NBA), but do hold their opponents to 110.3 points per game (5th in the NBA) by limiting opportunities and controlling the pace.

With the individual ability of Doncic and Tatum on opposing sides, don't be surprised to see a high-scoring match. That's only if their respective role players can step up to the plate. With Boston's proven bounce-back ability and Dallas' current form, count on these teams to put on a high-scoring affair.

How to Watch Boston Celtics vs Dallas Mavericks

• Who: Boston Celtics & Dallas Mavericks
• Where: American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX
• When: 7:30 PM EST, Thursday, January 5, 2023
• How to Watch: TNT, NBA League Pass (Stream)