Mavs vs. Celtics: Expert Reactions to Thrilling Game 1 of 2024 NBA Finals
The Boston Celtics delivered a commanding 107-89 victory over the Dallas Mavericks in Game 1 of the 2024 NBA Finals at TD Garden. Kristaps Porziņģis, returning from a calf strain that had sidelined him since the opening round, was the standout performer, scoring 20 points with six rebounds and three blocks in just 21 minutes.
Porziņģis’ Impact
Porziņģis’ return and performance were pivotal for the Celtics. ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith commented, “The Mavericks could be in major trouble if Porziņģis keeps playing at this level.” His shooting accuracy (8-of-13) and defensive prowess made him a significant factor.
Kenny Beecham echoed these sentiments, tweeting, “Porzingis for the last month [superhuman gif].”
Derrick White added, “He’s a matchup nightmare. Even when you play good defense, he doesn’t really see you. He changes us, and he makes us a better team.”
Celtics’ Depth and Star Power
The Celtics showcased their depth and three-point shooting, outscoring Dallas 48-21 from beyond the arc. Seven different Celtics made multiple triples, and all five starters, plus Payton Pritchard off the bench, dished multiple assists. Kevin O’Connor noted, “When the Celtics take at least 50% of their shots from 3, they are now 35-4 on the season.”
Despite Jayson Tatum having an off night, with 16 shots and more turnovers (six) than assists (five), Boston still secured an 18-point victory. Marc J. Spears from Andscape observed, “Tatum doesn’t have to play well for the Celtics to beat the Mavericks. The Celtics have too many other offensive options, especially if Porziņģis stays healthy.”
Dallas’ Struggles
Dallas struggled, with their supporting cast failing to perform. Mavericks not named Luka Dončić managed just three perimeter makes. The team’s offensive schemes, reliant on lob passes and corner kicks, were thwarted by Boston’s disciplined defense.
Kyrie Irving had a particularly rough night, scoring only 12 points on 19 field-goal attempts and ending with a game-worst minus-19 plus/minus. CelticsUnite tweeted, “Kyrie Irving is now 0-11 against the Celtics since the series where he stomped on lucky the logo. The curse continues…”
Dončić’s Lone Effort
Luka Dončić put in a commendable effort with 30 points and 10 rebounds but was inefficient from the field (12-of-26) and three-point line (4-of-12). He also had just one assist against four turnovers. His defensive lapses were highlighted by Eric Shapiro, who tweeted, “Luka is going to have to play much better defensively on the perimeter if Dallas is going to win this series.”
The talking points from Game 1 set the stage for the rest of the series. ESPN’s Kendrick Perkins expects a stronger performance from the Mavericks in Game 2. “Dallas has plenty to clean up,” he said. The burden will remain on the Mavericks’ stars to shine brighter and for their supporting cast to step up if they hope to even the series.