In a gripping Game 2 of the NBA Finals, the Boston Celtics secured a 105-98 victory over the Dallas Mavericks, extending their series lead to 2-0 as the competition shifts back to Dallas. When teams are up 2-0 in the NBA Finals they win the series 86% of the time, of the last 36 championship series only 5 teams have comeback from a 0-2 deficit to win the series. Interestly enough Boston’s Jrue Holiday was on the last team to do it. He and the Milwaukee Bucks came back down 0-2 to beat the Phoenix Suns. Famously, Lebron James and Kyrie Irving also pulled it off in 2016 against the Warriors. Does Kyrie have what it takes to lead a team back from a 0-2 start. If this game is an indication of the Mavs best work, it will be difficult to have confidence that they can pull it off.
Key Performances and Team Statistics
The Celtics’ balanced attack was led by Derrick White, who not only scored 18 points but also played a pivotal role in defending Dallas’ Kyrie Irving. Jayson Tatum contributed significantly with 18 points, 9 rebounds, and 12 assists, showcasing his all-around game. Jaylen Brown and Jrue Holiday added 21 and 26 points respectively, with Holiday also grabbing 11 rebounds.
On the Mavericks’ side, Luka Dončić made history as the first player in franchise history to record a triple-double in the NBA Finals, finishing with 32 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists. However, Luka wasn’t at full strength, which somewhat limited his impact. Kyrie Irving scored 16 points, many of which came late in the game as noted by Michael Wilbon, but struggled against the tenacious defense of White.
Shooting Struggles and Free Throw Disparity
The Mavericks struggled from beyond the arc, shooting a dismal 6-26 (23.1%) from three-point range, compared to the Celtics’ 10-39 (25.6%). This shooting disparity was a crucial factor in the game’s outcome. Moreover, the Celtics excelled at the free-throw line, hitting 19 of 20 attempts (95%), while the Mavericks managed only 16 of 24 (66.7%).
Rebounding and Assists
Boston slightly trailed in total rebounds, with 41 compared to Dallas’ 43, but their defensive rebounding (31) and assists (29) were critical in securing the win. Jrue Holiday’s 11 rebounds and Derrick White’s 5 offensive rebounds were standout contributions.
Controversial Call
One of the game’s most controversial moments occurred when Dallas had a chance to close the gap to three points. Derrick White blocked a dunk attempt, but replays showed he made contact with the player’s hand, which should have been called a foul. This non-call prevented the Mavericks from potentially shifting the momentum in their favor.
Looking Ahead
As the series moves to Dallas, the Mavericks will need to regroup and address their shooting woes if they hope to bounce back. The Celtics, on the other hand, will look to maintain their defensive intensity and balanced scoring to continue their march towards the championship.
Box Score Highlights
- Celtics: Jayson Tatum – 18 points, 9 rebounds, 12 assists; Jaylen Brown – 21 points, 4 rebounds; Jrue Holiday – 26 points, 11 rebounds.
- Mavericks: Luka Dončić – 32 points, 11 rebounds, 11 assists; Kyrie Irving – 16 points, 6 assists; Daniel Gafford – 13 points, 9 rebounds.
The series stands at 2-0 in favor of Boston, with the next two games set to take place in Dallas. The Mavericks will aim to leverage their home court to turn the tide, while the Celtics will seek to tighten their grip on the championship.
