2024 NBA Western Conference Semifinals Game 2 Preview - Dallas vs. Oklahoma: Can the Mavericks steal a road win against the Thunder? May 9, 2024 by Marc Jerbs

On Thursday, May 9, the Oklahoma City Thunder will face the Dallas Mavericks in Game 2 of the 2024 NBA Western Conference Semifinals. Game time is set 9:30PM EDT at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, OK. The Thunder leads the series, 1-0.

As the NBA Western Conference Semifinals heated up, all eyes were on the electrifying matchup between the Mavericks and the Thunder as Game 2 promised to be a clash of titans, with Dallas hoping to even the series and the Thunder eyeing a 2-0 lead.

The Mavericks, led by their dynamic duo of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, enter Game 2 with confidence after losing in the series opener. Doncic, the maestro of the Mavericks' offense, shot poorly throughout the game as he was physically defended by an array of Thunder’s players and he is playing injured which hampered his movement throughout the game. Expect Dallas to play differently this time around as they want to steal one road win to even the series before they return home to Dallas for Games 3 and 4.

On the other side, the Thunder are determined to extend the series lead, 2-0 after routing the Maverick in Game. Led by All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who continues to elevate his game on the playoff stage, the Thunder boast a young but seasoned group of players. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has established himself as the leader of the pack and has enjoyed impactful contributions from his teammates such as Che Holmgren, Luguentz Dort and Jalen Williams. Oklahoma City have the depth and talent to challenge Dallas and win again at home.

Injury Report

Dallas Mavericks

PLAYER	POSITION	STATUS
Luka Doncic (knee)	PG	Game Time Decision
Olivier-Maxence Prosper (ankle)	F	Game Time Decision

Oklahoma City Thunder

PLAYER	POSITION	STATUS
No injury reported.

Sports Bet Odds

With home court advantage, and Dallas superstar Doncic hobbled, the Thunder are the favorites to win the game. Here are our latest odds:

• The Thunder are favored by 5 points, with a money line of -195.
• The Bucks are the underdogs by 5 points, with a money line of +170.
• The over/under is set at 218.5 points, with the over at -110 and the under at -110.

As the stakes continue to rise in the Western Conference semifinals, Game 2 promises to be a thrilling contest filled with intensity and drama. With each possession carrying immense importance, expect both teams to leave it all on the court as they jostle for supremacy in pursuit of their championship aspirations. The stage is set for an epic showdown in Oklahoma City.

NBA Playoffs Team Statistics

Dallas Mavericks		Oklahoma City Thunder
105.3	Point Per Game	107.6
102.7	Points Allowed	90.6
45.4%	FG% Per Game	47.5%
41.9	Rebounds Per Game	44.8
20.9	Assists Per Game	24.0