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2024 NBA Finals: Odds for Celtics, Mavericks to win the NBA championship after Game 1

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - JUNE 06: Kristaps Porzingis #8 of the Boston Celtics celebrates with Jayson Tatum #0 during the second quarter against the Dallas Mavericks in Game One of the 2024 NBA Finals at TD Garden on June 06, 2024 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)

Game 1 of the 2024 NBA Finals between the Boston Celtics and the Dallas Mavericks was a one-sided affair, with the Celtics securing the first win in the series. The Celtics dominated from the start, maintaining a comfortable lead throughout the game, and their defense was particularly strong, limiting the Mavericks' scoring opportunities.

Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 22 points, but the game was truly marked by the triumphant return of 7-foot-3 center Kristaps Porzingis. Overcoming a month-long absence due to a calf injury, he made a remarkable comeback, contributing 20 points and three blocks in the Celtics' 107-89 win over Dallas.

Luka Doncic, the Mavericks' star player, scored 30 points, 10 rebounds, and a season-low one assist in the loss. Despite Doncic's impressive individual performance, the Mavericks were unable to overcome the Celtics' strong defense.

After an thrilling Game 1 performance, the Boston Celtics are heavy favorites to win the 2024 NBA Finals, according to BetMGM.

Mavericks' machinations: How a $750K tanking decision helped Dallas reach the NBA Finals with Dereck Lively II

Odds to win the 2024 NBA Championship

The Boston Celtics are favorites to defeat the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA Finals, according to the BetMGM basketball odds. Looking to wager? Check out the best mobile sports betting apps offering sports betting promos in 2024.

Odds as of Saturday afternoon.

  • Celtics (-400)

  • Mavericks (+320)

Ready to bet? Place a legal sports wager with BetMGM here.

2024 NBA Finals: Schedule, how to watch

Games

Location

Date/Time/Results

TV/Streaming

Game 1

TD Garden, Boston

Boston 107, Dallas 89

ABC, ESPN+

Game 2

TD Garden, Boston

Sunday, June 9 at 8 p.m. ET

ABC, ESPN+

Game 3

American Airlines Center, Dallas

Wednesday, June 12 at 8:30 p.m. ET

ABC, ESPN+

Game 4

American Airlines Center, Dallas

Friday, June 14 at 8:30 p.m. ET

ABC, ESPN+

Game 5(If necessary)

TD Garden, Boston

Monday, June 17 at 8:30 p.m. ET

ABC, ESPN+

Game 6(If necessary)

American Airlines Center, Dallas

Thursday, June 20 at 8:30 p.m. ET

ABC, ESPN+

Game 7(If necessary)

TD Garden, Boston

Sunday, June 23 at 8 p.m. ET

ABC, ESPN+

Looking for local streaming options to catch the NBA Finals? Check out USA TODAY Home Internet for broadband service plans in your area.

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 2024 NBA Finals: Odds to win the NBA championship after Game 1