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Spurs vs. Mavericks: Predictions, picks and best bet for season opener – Sports Illustrated

As the San Antonio Spurs head to Dallas for Thursday night’s season opener, they face a tough test right out of the gate.

The tip-off is set for 6:30 p.m. CT at the American Airlines Center, and all eyes will be on how San Antonio’s young core, including second-year phenom Victor Wembanyama and No. 4 overall pick Stephon Cassel, stack up against The Mavericks’ deadly duo of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving.

Kyrie Irving

March 19, 2024; San Antonio, Texas, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving (11) shoots against San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama (1) and guard Devin Vassell (24) during the second half at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory credit: Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images / Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images

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Luka Doncic

March 19, 2024; San Antonio, Texas, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic (77) dribbles against San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama (1) during the second half at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory credit: Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images / Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images

READ MORE: Wembanyama’s mission in Year 2: Championship

This game looks like a close battle, but in the end, the experience and firepower of the Mavericks should prevail.

Luka and Kyrie are likely to be too much for young Spurs to handle for four quarters, even with the threat of a big day from Wembanyama. Expect the Spurs to struggle, but Dallas’ backcourt will carry them to victory.

Victor Wembanyama

February 14, 2024; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward PJ Washington (25) and center Daniel Gafford (21) block a shot by San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama (1) during the second half at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Images by Jerome Miron-Imagn / Images by Jerome Miron-Imagn

READ MORE: Castle impresses Spurs early with versatility, ‘own pace’

Both teams have the potential to light up the scoreboard, especially with Luka and Kyrie running the show for Dallas. While Spurs’ defense has potential, it will likely take time for them to form as a unit, leaving room for a high-scoring game.

With the over/under set at 229.5, the best bet is to take the upper hand as both teams need to find success offensively this season.

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