Celtics Rout Mavericks 107-89 in Game 1 of NBA Finals Behind Brown, Returning Porzingis
Celtics Cruise Past Mavericks, Porzingis Drops 20 in Return
The Boston Celtics sent a clear message to the Dallas Mavericks in the opening game of the NBA Finals, dominating from start to finish in a 107-89 victory. Jaylen Brown led the Celtics in scoring with 25 points, while Kristaps Porzingis made a strong return from a calf injury with 20 points.
Depth Proves Too Much for Mavericks
The Celtics' bench depth was on full display in Game 1, as eight players scored at least eight points. Derrick White and Grant Williams each added 16 points, while Marcus Smart chipped in with 11. The Mavericks, on the other hand, had just two players in double figures: Luka Dončić with 20 points and Porzingis with 20.
Luka-Kyrie Duo Struggles
The Mavericks' star duo of Dončić and Kyrie Irving had an uncharacteristically quiet night, shooting a combined 15-of-37 from the field. Dončić did dish out 10 assists, but he also turned the ball over eight times. Irving finished with 18 points on 6-of-18 shooting.
Celtics Fend Off Mavericks Run
Despite trailing by 20 points in the third quarter, the Mavericks made a late push, cutting the deficit to single digits with just over three minutes remaining. However, the Celtics quickly regained control of the game, closing it out with a 9-0 run.
Live Coverage of Celtics vs. Mavericks
For live coverage of the NBA Finals, tune in to ESPN or follow the live score and highlights on the ESPN website.
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