Based on the information from various sources, the favorites to win each of the 2024 NBA Conference Finals series are:
- West Conference: The Minnesota Timberwolves are favored to win against the Dallas Mavericks. The Timberwolves have demonstrated strong defensive capabilities throughout the playoffs, including holding the Nuggets to just 97.6 PPG in the second round. Their star player, Anthony Edwards, has been instrumental in leading the offense, and their balanced team composition, featuring both future superstars and experienced veterans, positions them well for success. The Mavericks, led by Luka Doncic, have shown resilience but face a tough challenge against the Timberwolves’ formidable defense 6.
- East Conference: The Boston Celtics are predicted to dominate the series against the Indiana Pacers. Despite the Pacers’ strong nine-man rotation and recent success against a depleted New York Knicks team, the Celtics, led by Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, present a significant challenge due to their depth and experience. The Celtics’ ability to adapt to different defensive strategies, such as those employed by the Pacers, suggests they are well-prepared for the series. Additionally, the absence of Kristaps Porzingis for the Pacers adds to the Celtics’ favorability in the series 18.
Yes, there have been notable upsets and surprising performances in the 2024 NBA Conference Finals so far:
- Indiana Pacers Overcoming Odds: The Indiana Pacers have emerged as a surprising contender in the East, largely due to their efficiency in taking care of the ball and their effective mid-range shooting, particularly against the Boston Celtics. This performance has been attributed to the Pacers’ discipline and execution, especially in Game 1 where they managed to carve out opportunities against Al Horford, Boston’s 37-year-old big man. The Pacers’ ability to maintain composure and execute their game plan effectively has been a highlight of the series 1.
- Minnesota Timberwolves’ Comeback Against Denver Nuggets: The Western Conference series between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Denver Nuggets featured a remarkable comeback by the Timberwolves. Starting 0-2 at home, the Timberwolves won the next three games, including a stunning 20-point comeback in Game 7 in Denver. This series showcased the Timberwolves’ resilience and their ability to overcome adversity, highlighting Anthony Edwards’ leadership and the team’s overall depth 2.
The Boston Celtics are heavily favored to beat the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals. According to the odds from multiple sources:
The Celtics are -1600 favorites to win the series against the Pacers (+900 underdogs).
The Celtics are priced at +400 to win the series 4-1 against the Pacers.
In the Western Conference Finals between the Dallas Mavericks and Minnesota Timberwolves, the Timberwolves are favored but the series is expected to be more competitive:
The Timberwolves are -170 favorites to advance to the NBA Finals, while the Mavericks are +145 underdogs.
The Timberwolves have +850 odds to sweep the Mavericks 4-0, while the Mavericks are +475 to win the series in 6 games.
So the Celtics are heavily favored in the East, while the Timberwolves have a slighter edge over the Mavericks in the West based on the latest odds from sportsbooks.
In the 2024 NBA Conference Finals, the favorites for each series are as follows:
Western Conference Finals: Dallas Mavericks vs. Minnesota Timberwolves
The Minnesota Timberwolves are favored to win the Western Conference Finals against the Dallas Mavericks. The Timberwolves have had a strong season, finishing as the 3rd seed compared to the Mavericks’ 5th seed. Minnesota’s solid performance in the playoffs, including their victories over higher-seeded teams, has positioned them as the favorites. Key players such as Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns have been instrumental in their success (RealGM) (DraftKings Odds).
Eastern Conference Finals: Boston Celtics vs. Indiana Pacers
In the Eastern Conference Finals, the Boston Celtics are the favorites to win against the Indiana Pacers. The Celtics have been dominant throughout the season and are seen as strong contenders for the NBA Finals. They finished the regular season with the best record in the East and have continued their excellent form in the playoffs. With a deep roster and strong performances from stars like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, the Celtics are heavily favored to advance to the Finals (Yahoo Sports) (DraftKings Odds).
These predictions are based on the teams’ performances throughout the season and their current form in the playoffs.
Favorites to Win Each Series in the 2024 NBA Conference Finals
The favorites to win each series in the 2024 NBA Conference Finals are as follows:
Eastern Conference: Boston Celtics vs. Indiana Pacers
The Boston Celtics are favored to win the series against the Indiana Pacers. Despite the Pacers’ strong performance in the playoffs, the Celtics are considered the favorites due to their regular-season dominance and overall offensive prowess.
Western Conference: Dallas Mavericks vs. Minnesota Timberwolves
The Dallas Mavericks are favored to win the series against the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Mavericks, with their dangerous championship contender status and the presence of superstars Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, are considered the favorites in this matchup .
In summary, the Boston Celtics are the favorites to win the Eastern Conference Finals, while the Dallas Mavericks are favored to win the Western Conference Finals.