The Boston Celtics secured a 2-0 lead over the Dallas Mavericks with a thrilling back-and-forth Game 2 in Boston, positioning themselves favorably. Historically, teams leading 2-0 in the Finals hold a 31-5 record, and the Celtics boast a 43-1 series record when leading a best-of-7 series 2-0, with their sole loss occurring in the 2018 Eastern Conference Finals.
The Mavericks will now head to the American Airlines Center for Games 3 and 4, where they are 5-3 in this postseason.
After a sluggish start in the series opener, the Mavericks came out strong in Game 2, initially taking a 13-6 lead in the first quarter. However, Boston overtook them in the second quarter.
Luka Doncic delivered an impressive performance with 32 points, 11 assists, and 11 rebounds, marking his seventh triple-double this postseason, tying him for the second most in NBA playoff history. Despite his efforts, his eight turnovers hindered Dallas' chance to even the series. The Mavericks will seek redemption in Game 3 on Wednesday at 8:30 p.m. ET on ABC.
Can Dallas make this a competitive series? What were the key adjustments in Game 2? Our NBA insiders delve into the biggest questions arising from Game 2.
What was either team's biggest adjustment from Game 1 to Game 2?
Dave McMenamin: Boston focused on keeping the ball in Jayson Tatum's hands, encouraging him to facilitate even when his shot wasn't falling—he went 6-for-22 after a 6-for-16 performance in Game 1. His teammates stepped up, with Tatum recording 12 assists on Sunday, his highest this postseason. He effectively countered the Mavericks' on-ball pressure by finding cutters, notably Jrue Holiday, who went 10-for-13 with only three 3-point attempts. Tatum also distributed the ball to maintain perimeter threats, resulting in the Celtics hitting 10 three-pointers after making 16 in Game 1, demonstrating their overall offensive balance.
Brian Windhorst: The most impactful adjustment was the Celtics' offseason trades for Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday. Although there wasn't a significant difference between the two games, Boston's overall performance has remained subpar since the first quarter of Game 1. Despite this, thanks to these key additions, the team’s depth and versatility have been exceptional. The increased margin for error has been critical, and Porzingis' health will be a pivotal factor as the series progresses.
Marc Spears: Luka Doncic displayed increased aggression right from the start, scoring 23 points by halftime. His knee may have hindered him in Game 1, and the pregame announcement of his questionable status indicates he's not fully recovered. Despite hitting numerous difficult one-legged shots, it's clear that Doncicneeds help to carry the team. He needs more support from Kyrie Irving and other teammates to compete with Boston's offense. Should we consider giving Tim Hardaway Jr. more playing time?
Which player's performance has been the most surprising (or disappointing) so far?
Dave McMenamin: Dereck Lively II has been a crucial part of the Mavericks' run to the Finals, making his absence in Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals due to a neck strain notably impactful, as the Timberwolves claimed their only win of the series. However, in the Finals, his influence has been significantly diminished. He has scored just four points over the first two games, and on Sunday, he often appeared like the rookie he is. His errant save from going out of bounds led to a Celtics fast break, and he frequently found himself out of position on defense.
Brian Windhorst: Kyrie Irving has been the biggest disappointment. His rhythm has been disrupted, partly due to the Celtics' strong guard play and rim protection limiting his shooting opportunities. Additionally, Irving seems to be affected by the Boston crowd. After Game 1, he commented on the crowd's lack of noise, and in Game 2, he was visibly distracted by interactions with fans. This back-and-forth with the crowd is affecting his focus.
Marc Spears: Jrue Holiday's offensive outburst in Game 2 was a major surprise. I didn't expect him to be the leading scorer for the Celtics in any Finals game. His performance underscores that he is an elite player on both ends of the court and highlights the Celtics' extensive offensive arsenal. This depth is a daunting challenge for the Mavericks' defense.
This series is headed for a sweep if ___?
Dave McMenamin: The Mavericks' shooting doesn't improve at home. Dallas shot just 13-for-53 from three-point range (24.5%) in Games 1 and 2 in Boston, despite averaging 12.3 made threes per game in the postseason before Sunday. While the Mavericks' defense has admirably contained Boston's historically efficient offense, their offense needs to step up. This series will continue quickly unless they start hitting their shots.
Brian Windhorst: The Mavericks need help to create good shots, stalling their offense. The Celtics have excelled in neutralizing Irving and Doncic, which has severely hampered Dallas' offensive flow. Although the Mavs found some success with Daniel Gafford in the pick-and-roll during the third quarter, they need to identify more effective sets to challenge Boston's defense.
Marc Spears: Sweep? Dallas has too much talent and is heading home for two games. The series truly begins until a team loses at home, and Boston typically loses focus in at least one game each series. While a sweep is possible, I expect Dallas to show some fight and make this a competitive series.
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