Mavericks vs. Thunder schedule: The place to look at Recreation 5, NBA scores, predictions, odds for NBA playoff sequence – CBS Sports activities

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The highest-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder rallied on the street to even their sequence 2-2 in opposition to the Dallas Mavericks of their second-round playoff matchup. The Mavs handed the Thunder their first two losses of the 2024 playoffs in Video games 2 and three earlier than OKC staged a fourth-quarter rally on Monday to drag out a 100-96 victory.
The sequence has been dominated by how the video games will be officiated. Free throws determined Recreation 4. It was simply the fifth playoff recreation in NBA historical past wherein one staff shot 55% or worse on the line whereas the opposite shot 95% or higher. However here is the rub: this was the primary time in NBA historical past wherein each of these groups tried a minimum of 20 free-throws. 
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has stepped up when his staff wants him most. He scored or assisted on 18 of OKC’s remaining 22 factors over the ultimate six minutes in Recreation 4. He additionally added eight rebounds and 5 assists. Chet Holmgren added 18 of his personal together with 9 rebounds and 4 blocks.
Mavericks star Luka Doncic scored 18 factors on 6-of-20 taking pictures, together with 2-of-9 from 3 with seven turnovers. Kyrie Irving was once more quiet with simply 9 factors, although he did have 9 assists. P.J. Washington was once more terrific with 21 factors and 5 3-pointers. Dallas is making an attempt to get to the Western Convention finals for the second time in three years. 
The sequence shifts again to OKC on Wednesday for a pivotal Recreation 5. Here is every little thing it’s essential to know.
All instances Jap | * If mandatory
Time: 8:30 p.m. ET | Date: Wednesday, Might 15
Location: Paycom Middle — Oklahoma Metropolis
TV channel: TNT | Streaming: Watch TNT, Max
The Mavericks counted on Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, however the younger Thunder protection was in a position to disrupt them in Recreation 4. Though PJ Washington has continued his sizzling streak within the playoffs, Dallas will want their two stars to have extra productive video games in opposition to such a persistent opponent. The largest query for Wednesday is how the Mavericks reply.
“They’re enjoying desperation basketball and we gotta do the identical,” Irving mentioned after Recreation 4.
He added that this isn’t the time to panic as a result of there’s nonetheless extra basketball left on this sequence, however he additionally understands the function he and Doncic have to play to get the job accomplished.
“For us, it is nearly choosing the right spots and persevering with to remain aggressive. You already know, ensuring we play off one another very effectively too,” Irving mentioned. “I feel generally I may also help Luka and he may also help me. We create simple alternatives for ourselves after we’re doing that. The staff just about comes together with us. I gotta give credit score to my teammates. They have been carrying not solely me, however Luka on this sequence thus far.”
As for Doncic, he described taking pictures 52.2% from the charity line as “unacceptable,” and mentioned particulars reminiscent of lacking free throws and giving up offensive rebounds must be addressed.
Collection odds coming into Recreation 5: Mavs +152, Thunder +181
Though they’re younger, the best way they closed out Recreation 4 was a reminder that the Thunder should not a staff that can go down simple. That being mentioned, the Mavericks should not only a proficient staff, they’ve extra expertise which is useful right now of the yr — notably if Doncic and Irving determine a option to bounce again. Choose: Mavericks +4
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