Oklahoma City Thunder vs Dallas Mavericks Prediction & Betting Tips - NBA

Prediction published on 14/05/2024, 05:58  by Devesh Jaganath | Modified on 15/05/2024 at 03:37 in NBA Predictions

The Oklahoma City Thunder and Dallas Mavericks will head back to the Paycom Center to face off in Game 5 of the NBA Playoff Western Conference semi-finals on Wednesday. The Thunder won the last match to level the series 2-2. 

Following consecutive losses that left them trailing 2-1 in the series, the Oklahoma City Thunder mounted an impressive comeback in Game 4, securing a 100-96 victory to even the best-of-seven series on Monday. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered another stellar performance, tallying 34 points, eight rebounds, and five assists, while Chet Holmgren contributed 18 points, nine rebounds, and four blocks. The pivotal moment occurred with just over six minutes remaining in Q4 when OKC, facing a seven-point deficit, surged ahead by making nine of their next 11 shots to turn their deficit to a five-point lead in a span of slightly over five minutes. SGA played a central role in the comeback, scoring or assisting on 18 of OKC's final 22 points during the crucial stretch.

The series took an unexpected turn in Game 4 as the Dallas Mavericks, despite holding a substantial lead of up to 14 points and maintaining control for most of the game, faltered in the fourth quarter, allowing the Thunder to orchestrate a stunning comeback. Luka Doncic endured a rough night, struggling with his shooting efficiency as he managed to score 18 points on a 6-of-20 shooting performance, including 2-of-9 from beyond the arc while committing seven turnovers. Kyrie Irving was again quiet, contributing just nine points, though he did have nine assists. P.J. Washington was probably the standout player yet again for the Mavs, adding a terrific 21 points, including five 3-pointers. However, the spotlight remains on Doncic's underwhelming showing despite his triple-double stat line. The Thunder's aggressive defense and strategy of deploying multiple defenders to shadow Doncic appeared to frustrate him throughout the game.