Mavericks vs Timberwolves Prediction Game 3 NBA West 5/26
- Lm Tipster
- May 25, 2024, 6:51:05 PM
© Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
NBA Playoffs: Timberwolves vs. Mavericks Game 3 Preview and Prediction
Dallas, TX; May 26, 2024, 5:00 PM EST
Game Odds
Odds by ESPN BET
| Time | Spread | Total | Moneyline |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5:00 PM | DAL -3.5 (EVEN) | o208.5 (-110) | -150 |
| - | MIN +3.5 (-120) | u208.5 (-110) | +125 |
Game Overview
The Dallas Mavericks (50-32) host the Minnesota Timberwolves (56-26) in Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals on May 26, 2024, at 5:00 PM EST at the American Airlines Center in Dallas. The Mavericks lead the series 2-0 after two closely contested games. The line for this game is set at Dallas -3.5, with the over/under at 208.5 points.
Team Statistics
Minnesota Timberwolves
The Timberwolves are led by Anthony Edwards, who averages 25.9 points per game, and Rudy Gobert, who dominates the boards with 12.9 rebounds per game. Despite their strong performances, they narrowly lost the first two games.
Dallas Mavericks
Led by Luka Dončić, who averages an impressive 33.9 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 9.8 assists per game, the Mavericks have managed to edge out the Timberwolves in both games, demonstrating their resilience and clutch play.
Injuries and Player Matchups
Injuries can significantly impact game outcomes.
Minnesota Timberwolves
Jaylen Clark remains out for the season, which affects the team's depth but not their primary rotation.
Dallas Mavericks
Olivier-Maxence Prosper and Maxi Kleber are game-time decisions, potentially affecting the Mavericks' bench strength.
Recent Performances
Minnesota Timberwolves
The Timberwolves have lost their last two games to the Mavericks by narrow margins (109-108 and 108-105), but they showed resilience and competitiveness in both matches.
Dallas Mavericks
The Mavericks have been on a winning streak, with their last five games showing a perfect record, including the two recent victories against the Timberwolves.
Prediction
For Game 3, the prediction is for the Timberwolves to cover the +3.5 spread. Here’s why betting on the Timberwolves is a strong pick:
- Close Games: The first two games were extremely close, decided by a combined total of 4 points. This indicates that the teams are evenly matched, and the Timberwolves have a strong chance to stay within the spread.
- Desperation Factor: Down 2-0 in the series, the Timberwolves are in a must-win situation to avoid a nearly insurmountable deficit. This urgency often leads to heightened focus and effort.
- Offensive Adjustments: The Timberwolves have shown they can score effectively against the Mavericks' defense. With slight adjustments, they can improve their chances of not only covering the spread but also winning outright.
- Star Power: Anthony Edwards and Rudy Gobert have been consistent performers. Edwards' scoring and Gobert's rebounding presence can be decisive factors, especially if Luka Dončić faces any defensive adjustments from the Timberwolves.
Considering these factors, it is reasonable to believe that the Timberwolves will not lose three games in a row in this series and will cover the +3.5 spread.
