Former Mavericks center Kristaps Porziņģis played a significant role in propelling the Boston Celtics to a commanding 29-point lead in the second quarter, paving the way for their comfortable 107-89 victory over the Mavericks in the series opener at TD Garden.
Game 2 is scheduled to return to Boston on Sunday at 7 p.m. before transitioning to Dallas for Game 3 on Wednesday and Game 4 on June 14.
The Celtics showcased their dominance in the series opener, highlighted by their impressive three-point shooting with seven conversions in the first quarter. Conversely, they limited the Mavericks to just nine assists throughout the game.
Mavericks coach Jason Kidd acknowledged the Celtics' defensive prowess, emphasizing the need for his team to improve ball movement and capitalize on scoring opportunities in Game 2.
Boston orchestrated a game-altering 44-14 run that spanned the first and second quarters, propelling them to a commanding 58-29 lead with 4:09 remaining before halftime following a three-pointer by Jayson Tatum. The Mavericks, many of whom were experiencing their first NBA Finals appearance, appeared stunned by the Celtics' dominance.
Mavericks coach Kidd acknowledged the Celtics' prowess, emphasizing the need for his team to elevate their game despite any nerves or lack of experience.
In the third quarter, Dallas managed to narrow the deficit to 72-64 against the Celtics at the 4:27 mark after a three-pointer by Luka Dončić. However, their momentum was halted when Dereck Lively II was called for traveling. This allowed the Celtics to close out the quarter with a decisive 14-2 run, extending their lead to 86-66 heading into the fourth quarter after consecutive three-pointers from Tatum, Al Horford, and Jaylen Brown.
Reflecting on the game, Dončić acknowledged Boston's exceptional three-point shooting and stressed the importance of the Mavericks improving their performance on both ends of the court to compete effectively.
The Mavericks must also improve their containment of Kristaps Porziņģis. Making his return since straining his right calf in Game 4 of the first-round playoff series against the Miami Heat on April 29, Porziņģis appeared remarkably fresh and effective against his former team.
The game momentum notably shifted in Boston’s favor when Porziņģis entered the contest for the first time with 7:17 remaining in the first quarter. Energized by the sellout crowd, Porziņģis contributed 11 of his 20 points in the opening quarter, during which the Celtics held a commanding 37-20 lead.
Coach Kidd acknowledged Porziņģis' impact, highlighting his scoring prowess, shot-blocking ability, and the spark he provided off the bench.
"We need to make it tougher for him on the offensive end," Kidd emphasized. "We have to force him into different situations and disrupt his rhythm. He found great looks tonight and capitalized on them."
Luka Dončić led the Mavericks with 30 points and 10 rebounds but only managed one assist, his lowest in a game this season and ever in a playoff game. When asked about the Celtics' defensive approach, Dončić mentioned their focus on one-on-one matchups and frequent help defense.
Meanwhile, Kyrie Irving, facing his former team where he played from 2017 to 2019, had a forgettable performance, scoring just 12 points on 6-of-19 shooting from the field. He was consistently booed by the crowd whenever he touched the ball.
Despite Irving's struggles, the Celtics maintained their poise, shooting 47.6% from the field and making 16-of-42 three-pointers (38.1%). In contrast, the Mavericks shot 41.7% from the floor and missed 20 three-point attempts. The 89 points scored by the Mavericks were their fewest in a playoff game this season.
P.J. Washington emphasized the need for the team to stay connected and focused, acknowledging that external factors such as crowd noise and officiating affected their performance.
Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 22 points, while Jayson Tatum contributed 16 points. Derrick White scored 15 points, Jrue Holiday added 12 points, and Al Horford chipped in 10 points. Apart from Dončić and Irving, the Mavericks received contributions from Washington (14 points, 8 rebounds) and Jaden Hardy (13 points).
Despite losing Game 1, the Mavericks remain confident and resilient. They have faced similar situations before in the playoffs and are determined to bounce back in Game 2.
"We are a great team," Washington affirmed. "They are a great team too. We'll be alright. It's only one game. We'll be better for Game 2."
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