Mavericks Face a 2-0 Deficit in the NBA Finals Against the Celtics
The Dallas Mavericks are in a tough spot, down 2-0 in the NBA Finals after another loss to the Boston Celtics. On Sunday night, the Celtics claimed a 105-98 victory, led by Jrue Holiday’s 26 points, Jayson Tatum’s triple-double, and a strong performance from Jaylen Brown.
Boston’s Commanding Performance
The Mavericks are struggling with Luka Dončić injured and Kyrie Irving not performing at his best. Head coach Jason Kidd’s strategies against the Celtics haven’t paid off, contributing to the team’s current predicament. The Celtics’ solid win on Sunday night saw contributions from Holiday, Tatum, and Brown, further establishing Boston’s dominance in the series.
Dončić’s Heroic Effort Amid Injuries
Despite playing through chest, knee, and leg injuries, Dončić delivered a triple-double with 32 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists. However, his efforts alone were insufficient as he managed only nine points in the latter part of the game. Dončić acknowledged the impact of his injuries, stating, “I think the lack of productivity and spacing cost us the game.” He sustained a chest injury in Game 1 but only felt the pain the following day.
Irving’s Struggles Continue
Kyrie Irving’s performance has been underwhelming, with a 13-of-37 shooting record in the series. He failed to make any three-pointers in both games. Reflecting on his performance, Irving said, “I would take more responsibility. The first two games weren’t very good for me.” He emphasized the need for collective effort, stating, “This is for all of us. I’m sure if you listen to what everyone says, they will say they could have done something better. But I think the message now is to come together.”
Game 3 Set for Wednesday
Game 3 is scheduled for Wednesday at 8:30 PM ET at the American Airlines Center in Dallas. The Mavericks aim to turn the series around on their home court.
Kidd’s Controversial Comments and Player Performances
After Saturday’s practice, Jason Kidd stirred controversy by suggesting Jaylen Brown might be the Celtics’ best player over Tatum. Despite a poor shooting night, Tatum contributed 18 points, 9 rebounds, and 12 assists, while Brown added 21 points, seven assists, four rebounds, and three steals, justifying Kidd’s comments.
Key Moments in the Fourth Quarter
In the crucial moments of the fourth quarter, with Boston trailing by five points, Brown and Derrick White made pivotal defensive plays that swung the momentum. Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla praised the team’s collective effort, emphasizing the importance of every player’s contribution.
Holiday’s Standout Performance
Holiday emerged as the Celtics’ top scorer, shooting 11-of-14, grabbing 11 rebounds, and committing zero turnovers. His perimeter defense was instrumental in disrupting Dallas’ offense, particularly against Dončić and Irving. Holiday’s selfless attitude was evident in his post-game comments: “I am a useful man. I will do whatever it takes. I’m here to win.”
Injury Concerns for the Celtics
Kristaps Porziņģis aggravated a calf strain that had previously sidelined him for 10 games. He scored 12 points before struggling in the fourth quarter and being removed from the game. Despite the injury, Porziņģis expressed his determination to play in Game 3, stating, “I will die outside.”
Mavericks’ Second-Half Struggles
Dallas trailed 54-51 at halftime, thanks to Dončić’s 23 points. The Celtics extended their lead to 13 points in the third quarter, and Payton Pritchard’s crucial three-pointer in the fourth quarter solidified Boston’s advantage. Dončić’s stellar performance, with four steals and Washington’s 17 points and 7 rebounds, couldn’t compensate for the team’s poor three-point shooting (2-of-17) and free-throw woes (8-of-24).
Looking Ahead
The Mavericks need to improve their ball handling and shooting to overcome Boston’s defense. As Dončić said, “We just need to take care of the ball. There were too many turnovers that got them points.” The team looks to rebound in Game 3, needing a collective effort to support Dončić and Irving in their quest to narrow the series deficit.
