The NBA playoffs are heating up, and the Boston Celtics have secured their spot in the Finals after a dominant sweep of the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference finals. As you look ahead to the 2024 NBA Finals round, HTC News brings you what you need to know about the Celtics’ chances and their competition.
(more HTC News Sports articles)
Clear Favorites in the 2024 NBA Finals
Suppose you’re considering placing your bets on the 2024 NBA finals. In that case, most sportsbooks look at it this way: the Celtics are the heavy favorites to win the Finals, regardless of whether they face the Dallas Mavericks or the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Former Celtics guard Eddie House recently commented on “The Carton Show,” saying, “The mentality of that team is, if they don’t win it, it’s going to be a bust season.” This shows just how high the stakes are for Boston.
Breaking Down the Odds
Now, let’s look at the numbers. Here are the current odds for the Western Conference winner and the overall championship, offering a fascinating insight into the current state of play.
Western Conference Winner:
Dallas Mavericks: -550 (Bet $10 to win $11.82 total)
Minnesota Timberwolves: +425 (Bet $10 to win $52.50 total)
Championship Odds:
Boston Celtics: -225 (Bet $10 to win $14.44 total)
Dallas Mavericks: +230 (Bet $10 to win $33 total)
Minnesota Timberwolves: +1300 (Bet $10 to win $140 total)
In potential matchups:
Boston vs. Minnesota: Celtics -225, Timberwolves +185
Boston vs. Dallas: Celtics -225, Mavericks +185
Skepticism Despite Favorable Odds
Despite these favorable odds, only some are convinced the Celtics can go. Colin Cowherd voiced his doubts on “The Herd,” suggesting that Boston’s relatively easy path through the Eastern Conference and lack of a true superstar could hinder their championship aspirations.
Strengths and Weaknesses of the Celtics
The Celtics have been impressive this season, boasting a 12-2 playoff record and a 41-11 record against Eastern Conference teams during the regular season. However, Cowherd points out that while the team is very skilled, they lack the defining greatness that teams like the Mavericks, led by Luka Doncic, possess.
Jayson Tatum, Boston’s best player, is critiqued for not having an alpha personality or taking over games like Doncic. This could be a crucial factor in high-stakes final matchups.
A Team Effort
One of the Celtics’ unique aspects is their collaborative play style. Cowherd noted, “If you watch the Celtics play, on five different possessions, they could have five different Celtic players score.” While this makes for beautiful basketball, it raises questions about whether this approach can win a championship, where having a go-to star often makes the difference.
The Final Word
As you consider where to place your bets or simply watch as a fan, remember the Celtics’ blend of skill and teamwork against the star power and individual brilliance of teams like the Mavericks and the Timberwolves. The stage is set for an exciting conclusion to the 2024 NBA Finals, and whether Boston can overcome its Western Conference challengers will soon be revealed.
read more: A History of Basketball: Evolution and Global Reach Overview
