Mavericks Dominate Celtics to Extend NBA Finals Series
The Dallas Mavericks delivered a crushing performance against the Boston Celtics, securing a 122-84 victory in Game 4 of the NBA Finals. This spectacular win at the American Airlines Center in Dallas forces the series into at least a fifth game. The Celtics, aiming for their NBA-record 18th title, now lead the series 3-1 and will seek to close it out in Game 5 at TD Garden in Boston.
Luka Dončić was the standout player, orchestrating the Mavericks' comeback with 25 points in the first half alone. His stellar performance endured harsh criticism for his defensive efforts in the prior games. Dončić highlighted his focus on winning for the team, which ultimately led to the third-largest margin of victory in NBA Finals history. Dončić finished with 29 points, five rebounds, and five assists, while Kyrie Irving contributed 21 points and six assists to the win.
The Celtics entered Game 4 on the back of a dramatic victory in Game 3, knowing a win would ensure their 18th championship. However, Dallas aimed to avoid a sweep and dismantled the Celtics from the start, ending Boston's 10-game postseason winning streak and handing them their first road loss in this playoffs.
In the first quarter, Dončić and Irving set the pace, leading Dallas to a 34-21 advantage. Despite efforts by Boston's Jayson Tatum, the Mavericks' defense—and additional contributions from players such as Derrick Jones Jr.—pushed their lead to 61-35 by halftime. The Celtics faltered in the third quarter, with Dallas extending their lead to 36 points.
Both teams turned to their benches in the final quarter, giving substitutes a chance to shine. Dallas' Tim Hardaway Jr. notably excelled, hitting four consecutive three-pointers and leading a 15-0 run. The Mavericks' defense, limiting Boston to 36% from the field compared to their 50%, was crucial.
As the series heads back to Boston for Game 5, the Celtics must regroup from their heavy defeat. Dallas, buoyed by their dominant performance, will look to continue their momentum and defy the odds as teams trailing 3-1 in the NBA Finals have historically only won 3% of the time (1-36).
- The Celtics' Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown struggled significantly in their Game 4 performances. Tatum was limited to 15 points and faced defensive challenges throughout the game, committing early fouls that disrupted his rhythm. Brown, on the other hand, scored only 10 points from 12 attempts, highlighting Boston’s offensive struggles against a robust Dallas defense.
- Daniel Gafford and Derrick Jones Jr. were pivotal in the Mavericks' defensive efforts. Gafford blocked Tatum twice in the third quarter, illustrating Dallas' defensive intensity. Jones added crucial points and played a critical role in maintaining the Mavericks' substantial lead through successful three-pointers.
- Boston's first postseason road loss came as a significant blow, especially considering their perfect road record until Game 4. Despite the setback, the Celtics’ home advantage in Game 5 could play a vital role in their quest to clinch the championship.
- The performance of Dallas' bench players in the fourth quarter was especially noteworthy. With the game already decided, substitutes like Dante Exum and Tim Hardaway Jr. continued to dominate, extending the lead and showcasing Dallas' depth in the roster.
