Bodog Beat

The heated battle of Texas between the Dallas Mavericks and San Antonio Spur is not what it used to be. (AI Wire Images)

The two square off tonight in San Antonio with it being unclear whether either team will contend for an NBA title this year.

The Spurs weren't picked as favorites to go to the finals in a preseason survey of league general managers for the first time in five years, and not having Manu Ginobili available until December won't help.

The Mavs turned in a woeful fourth quarter in Monday's 100-81 loss to Cleveland. They trailed by six entering the frame before allowing the Cavaliers to start it on a 13-0 run that put away the game.

San Antonio went 3-1 against Dallas last season, including a 2-0 mark since Jason Kidd was acquired by the Mavericks. Dallas is 8-1 ATS in the last nine meetings in San Antonio. Bet on NBA basketball in the Bodog Sportsbook.