Celtics Depth Overwhelms Mavericks in Game 1
Boston's Balanced Attack, Struggling Mavs Backcourt
The Boston Celtics opened the NBA Finals with a dominant 107-89 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday night. While Kristaps Porzingis returned from injury to score 20 points, the Celtics' depth and balanced scoring proved too much for the Mavericks.
The Celtics had seven players score in double figures, led by Jason Tatum's 25 points. Jaylen Brown added 22 points, while Al Horford contributed 15 points and 15 rebounds.
The Mavericks, on the other hand, struggled to find a consistent offensive rhythm. Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving combined for just 36 points on 13-of-41 shooting. The Celtics' defense also limited Dallas to 33.3% shooting from the field.
Celtics Ground Mavs Bigs
In addition to their backcourt struggles, the Mavericks also found it difficult to establish their big men. Porzingis was the only Dallas player to score in double digits, while Dwight Powell and Maxi Kleber combined for just 11 points.
The Celtics' defense played a key role in containing the Mavericks' size. Robert Williams III, Grant Williams, and Horford all played well defensively, limiting Dallas to just 38 points in the paint.
Conclusion
The Boston Celtics' depth and balanced attack proved too much for the Dallas Mavericks in Game 1 of the NBA Finals. The Celtics will look to take a 2-0 lead in the series when they host Game 2 on Sunday night.
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