After a drama-filled and nerve-shredding playoffs, we have reached the NBA Finals and we have a mouth-watering clash to look forward to starting on Thursday evening as the Golden State Warriors host Boston Celtics in Game 1. Like all the other playoff games we have witnessed to date, it will be a best-of-seven games series and the two aforementioned franchises are worthy finalists.
There are so many juicy subplots and storylines that could unfold over the series, but here are a few revealing stats that are worth considering before tip-off:
- The Celtics have beaten the Warriors in six of their past seven clashes – a record dating back to 2019.
- In terms of championships won, the Celtics and the Warriors are among the top four most successful NBA teams.
- This will be the first time that the Warriors and Celtics will face off in an NBA Finals since 1964.
Unsurprisingly, the NBA Finals is one of the biggest events for fans and the best online sports betting operators are comprehensive in their coverage of it.
With that in mind, we have handpicked a couple of tips for you to chew over ahead of Game 1.
Golden State Warriors to make home court advantage count
Home court advantage counts for a lot in the NBA. While Warriors fans may want little reminding about their dismal record against the Celtics, perhaps things could change in Game 1. Steve Kerr’s men, let’s not forget, were previously an indomitable force. Indeed, they created a mini dynasty for themselves between 2015 and 2018 when they claimed three NBA Championship rings, so their credentials are unquestioned. Whereas, with the Celtics, their most recent title success was in 2008, so they would love to end a barren wait without a trophy.
So, with that in mind, the Warriors could come out on top in Game 1. The Moneyline market at SugarHouse may be advertising rather short odds of -159 for the Warriors to win, but this could be worth following up on.
Steph Curry to find his range
Steph Curry is an indispensable part of the Warriors roster and he is to the Warriors what Cristiano Ronaldo is to Manchester United. Curry usually makes his mark in NBA Finals and he is always a big offensive threat on the floor.
A cursory glance at Curry’s figures in NBA Finals makes for impressive reading. In 28 career Finals games, Curry has averaged 26.5 points, along with 6.2 assists and 5.7 rebounds, while he is 38.5% with his shooting from the 3-point range. In this year’s playoffs, Curry has accounted for 39.4% of the Warriors’ 3-point attempts which is the highest among the 129 players that have managed at least 100 playoff minutes. He also leads the playoffs with 1.6 secondary assists per game, so his overall contribution on the court can’t be faulted.
Curry usually steps up to the plate and if you like the prop markets, then SugarHouse is offering a tempting looking price of +175 for Curry to finish Game 1 as the top points scorer.
Expect a pulsating clash
Matchups between the Warriors and the Celtics are usually pulsating affairs. Four of the past five showdowns have seen over 210 points scored. When you have the likes of Curry for the Warriors and Jaylen Brown for the Celtics making three-pointers for fun, then the neutrals could be in for a treat.
The total points over/under section of a sportsbook is usually intriguing and provides good value for money. So, if you fancy there to be Over 212.5 points in Game 1, then SugarHouse is offering a price of -110 for this to be the case.
