Dallas Favored In Series Opener

Mavericks-Timberwolves: Game 1 Preview

Dallas Favored in Series Opener

The Dallas Mavericks will open their Western Conference semifinals series against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday night as 5-point favorites, according to BetMGM Sportsbook. The Mavericks have a 3-1 advantage over the Timberwolves in the regular season, but all four games were decided by single digits.

Keys to the Game

The key to the game could be in the rebounding battle. The Mavericks have a slight advantage in offensive rebounds per game (11.1 to 10.8), but the Timberwolves have a significant advantage in defensive rebounds per game (36.1 to 32.8). If the Mavericks can control the glass, they will have a good chance of winning Game 1. However, if the Timberwolves can keep the Mavericks off the boards, they will be in a good position to take the series opener.

BetMGM Sportsbook Odds and Picks

* **Mavericks** -5 (-110) * **Timberwolves** +5 (-110) **Our Pick:** Mavericks -5 (-110) We like the Mavericks to win Game 1 of this series. They have a better overall team, and they have a slight edge in the rebounding battle. Despite the Mavericks having an advantage in offensive rebounds per game, the difference is defensive rebounding where the Timberwolves truly shine. If the Mavericks can't find a way to win the rebounding battle, they could be in trouble in this series.