Cover Image from MediaNews Group/Boston Herald via Getty Images
In a thrilling display of teamwork and determination, the Boston Celtics continued their quest for an unprecedented 18th NBA championship, securing a 2-0 lead in the NBA Finals with a 105-98 victory over the Dallas Mavericks. The Celtics’ collective effort was on full display as multiple players stepped up to contribute to the win.
Jrue Holiday led the charge, scoring 26 points and grabbing 11 rebounds, while Derrick White’s relentless hustle culminated in a dramatic chase-down block that sealed the Mavericks’ fate. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown also played crucial roles, with Tatum compensating for a tough shooting night by dishing out 12 assists, grabbing nine rebounds, and scoring 18 points. Brown added 21 points, three steals, and invaluable defensive pressure.
The Mavericks’ star, Luka Doncic, delivered a historic performance with 32 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists, marking the first NBA Finals triple-double in Dallas franchise history. Despite his efforts, including a three-point play in the final minutes to spark a late comeback attempt, the Mavericks fell short as the Celtics’ depth and resilience proved too much.
Peyton Pritchard contributed a pivotal moment with a banked half-court shot at the third-quarter buzzer, extending Boston’s lead to 83-74. This collective effort highlights why the Celtics are the top-seeded team in the NBA, boasting the league’s best record and showcasing their depth and versatility.
“That’s why they are the No. 1 team in the NBA with the No. 1 record,” said Doncic post-game. “They have a lot of great players. Basically, anybody can get off.”
Doncic’s status was uncertain up until just before the game, but he pushed through to notch his 10th career playoff triple-double. However, his limited scoring in the fourth quarter underscored Boston’s defensive prowess, as they held the Mavericks to just nine points in the closing stretch.
The Celtics’ balanced attack and unyielding defense continue to drive them closer to their championship dreams, leaving the Mavericks and the rest of the league in awe of their formidable team effort.
