Celtics Take 2-0 Lead in Finals
The Boston Celtics secured a thrilling 105-98 win over the Dallas Mavericks in Game 2 of the 2023-24 NBA Finals. Despite struggling with their three-point shooting, the Celtics relied on strong team defense and Jayson Tatum’s near triple-double performance to take a 2-0 series lead. Game 3 will be held on June 13 at the Mavericks’ home court, American Airlines Center.
Mavericks’ Early Surge
The Mavericks started strong, utilizing excellent ball movement to jump to a 7-2 lead. Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving added to the lead with their individual scoring abilities. However, after a failed challenge with 7 minutes remaining, the Mavericks’ shooting cooled, allowing the Celtics to close the gap with multiple free throws, bringing the score within one possession.
Tight First Quarter
Both teams continued to battle, with the Celtics hitting their first three-pointer of the game in the final 5 seconds of the first quarter. The Mavericks ended the quarter with a narrow 28-25 lead, setting the stage for a closely contested game.
Celtics Rally in the Second Quarter
In the second quarter, Doncic maintained his high shooting accuracy, while the Celtics’ three-point struggles persisted. However, with contributions from Tatum, Kristaps Porzingis, and Derrick White, the Celtics took their first lead of the game with 8 minutes remaining. The teams exchanged leads until Jrue Holiday’s three-pointer gave the Celtics a 54-51 advantage at halftime.
Celtics Extend Lead in Third Quarter
The Mavericks opened the third quarter with baskets from Daniel Gafford and P.J. Washington, followed by shots from Doncic and Dereck Lively II. Nevertheless, the Celtics capitalized on defensive stops to fuel fast-break points, stretching their lead to double digits with 3:30 left in the quarter, prompting a Mavericks timeout.
Mavericks’ Response
After the timeout, Doncic scored four quick points with a three-pointer and a free throw to halt the Celtics’ momentum. Despite further contributions from Dante Exum, Washington, and Irving, the Celtics maintained their lead with team efforts, including a buzzer-beater three from Payton Pritchard, finishing the third quarter ahead 83-74.
Celtics Hold On in Final Quarter
The Celtics started the final quarter with a momentum-boosting fast-break dunk following a Doncic turnover. Irving’s playmaking helped the Mavericks claw back some points, but key baskets from various Celtics players kept their lead above eight points. A scare occurred when Porzingis appeared to injure his right leg, but after a timeout, the Celtics extended their lead to double digits with threes from White and Holiday. The Mavericks fought back with a 9-0 run, narrowing the gap to five points.
Sealing the Victory
In the final 50 seconds, a crucial defensive stop by the Celtics prevented a potential dunk by Washington. Jaylen Brown followed with a successful layup, sealing the game. The Celtics emerged victorious with a final score of 105-98, taking a commanding 2-0 lead in the series. (Lvbet)
