John Chang
OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER/Dallas Mavericks over 200, 10 dimes
The total has soared over the number in 5 out of the last 6 meetings between these teams, and 200 points is a dream come true for this matchup. No matter how much the teams want to talk about focusing on defense, it just isn't happening. Both teams have shown the ability to score at will, Dallas in the first game and OKC in the second. The zone that the Mavs are employing simply isn't living up to its billing. The Thunder's shooters are knocking down shot after shot from the outside, and Scott Brooks is taking advantage of zone matchups in the low post. If the Mavs choose to go to man defense, things might even get uglier. OKC's defense hasn't been anything to write home about either, giving up 100+ in both games, although I do give them a lot of credit when it came to ball denial to Dirk in game 2. Dallas has shown that they are comfortable playing in Oklahoma City, so Chang is comfortable in betting that this game will fly over the total.
Dallas Mavericks +3 over OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER, 10 dimes
I would guess that Dallas' emphasis in Game 3 will be to get Dirk the ball. He can handle the rest. After a "quiet" 29 points in game 2, the German is going to be the focal point of the offense again today. He has to be due to the fact that he and Barea are the only two reliable scoring options for Carlisle. The rest of the Mavs offensive weapons rely on making outside shots, which aren't always falling. The Mavs took both regular season meetings between these two teams in OKC, so the familiarity and comfort levels are there. Dallas is also a reliable road bet. They're currently riding a 5-0-1 ATS road streak. The Thunder bench delivered a shot in the teeth to the Mavericks, and today we should see Dallas' superior bench sending a message back. Remember when I talked about that championship desire? I expect it to be on full display today. Take the small road dog.
LA DODGERS/Chicago White Sox under 8 runs, 5 dimes