The Dallas Mavericks attacked without any letup as they closed the series 4-1 with a 124-103 win over the Timberwolves tonight! For all the trash-talk, promise, and challenge, Anthony Edwards and Co. couldn’t hold their own. Although the Mavs would still hold the advantage if the Wolves did win tonight, it would have tipped the scales in Minnesota’s favor somewhat.

Seeing as how it’s already in the past, Charles Barkley did not hide his disappointment. In fact, he made sure to let them know during the post-game discussion. “That was embarrassing. I’m embarrassed for these Minnesota fans,” he said. However, he did not fail to quickly give his opinion on the NBA Finals. Chuck was quite certain of who the winners would be.

Charles Barkley names his pick for the title-bearers this season

The Boston Celtics. Moreover, Sir Charles believes they can take the team to the promised land without Kristaps Porziņģis in the picture. “I still haven’t seen anything to make me think the Celtics are not going to win the championship… [If Kristaps Porziņģis is out] I still like the Celtics.” But, of course, Shaquille O’Neal did not agree. He was of the opinion that the Cs do not have three or four guys who can guard Luka Doncic. “I like Dallas in this series,” Shaq said, with a no-argument tone.

Porzingis is an injury-addled player. The ‘Beantown’ is well aware of the fact, as is everyone. However, the defensive stalwart that he is, has been key to the Celtics, with many considering him just as important as the superstars of the franchise. Unfortunately, he’s only been able to play four games in the 2023–24 postseason after appearing in 57 and starting all of them in the regular season. After a non-contact injury during the Heat matchup, the Latvian center has been sidelined.

Porzingis has yet to play a playoff game since. ESPN’s Wojnarowski had initially said that the 7-foot bog man would make a return in time for Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals. However, no such thing happened and Boston swept the series 4-0 vs the Pacers. Seeing as how the Cs have gone without Kristaps all season long, we can’t fault Charles Barkley for believing they can continue that streak in the Finals. Nevertheless, it wouldn’t be wise to underestimate their opponents.

Shaq’s pick, the Dallas Mavericks, could very well give a run for the Cs’ money

Luka Doncic and Co. battled their way through the regular season to finish with the fifth-best record in the league. They were also the fifth-seeded team in the East, kicking the Suns behind them. They moved to the playoffs, and they beat the 4th-seeded Clippers 4-2. The semifinals saw them go head-to-head with the No. 1 seed, the OKC Thunder. Dallas once again took care of business 4-2.

Finally, tonight saw Luka Magic and Irving Wizardry decimate the Wolves 4-1. It would have been a series sweep hadn’t the Mavericks gotten too comfortable in Game 4. Nonetheless, Ant and his young squad gave them a very tough time, with nearly all matchups tightly contested.

Well, as per NBA Insider, Shams Charania, there is great hope that Porzingis will suit up for Game 1 of the Finals. We can expect the 2023–24 NBA Finals to be one of the best blockbuster series ever! Who do you have your bets on? Dallas or Boston? Tell us in the comments below!

Before you go, another matter foremost on our minds is about our beloved Inside the NBA crew. While many are sure they are going to be disbanded, Shaq’s confidante and ex-agent, Leonard Armato, thinks otherwise. To learn more about his comments, watch this video.