The Mavericks essentially went all-in to procure the dynamic duo of Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis. It is looking like a shrewd move and one that has them probably a year ahead of schedule in terms of their ascent in the Western Conference. The Mavericks are 0-3 this season against the Clippers but should be well-positioned for a strong Game 1 performance Monday night after resting all their key players in the regular-season finale against the Suns. The Clippers likely will be without valuable contributors Patrick Beverley and Landry Shamet due to injuries. A flat spot looms for Los Angeles.

The Mavericks are the top offensive team in the NBA. I know their defense is rather average, but if they're going to steal a game in this series, it will be the first one. Normally, I would back the defensive team, but I just don't want to lay points with no home-court advantage. The Clippers won all three regular-season meetings after beating Dallas in the bubble 126-111 in a very low-paced game. I'm expecting a similar contest tonight. The Mavericks outscore their opponent by five points per 100 possessions while Los Angeles outscores its foes by 6.3. I'll take the Mavericks and the points as they seek revenge.

This series has so much star power and the offensive fireworks will be on full display in Game 1. The Clippers will eventually wear down Luka Doncic over the course of this series, but not tonight. This game goes up and down as the Mavericks can’t guard a chair. Lots of possessions, lots of points. Over!

My model says the Clippers cover the spread in well over 60 percent of the simulations. Los Angeles finished the regular season by winning four of its final five contests. It also won all three meetings with Dallas, including a 126-111 triumph in the bubble on Aug. 6. Expect the Clippers to post a similar victory Monday.