Desperation Fuels Mavericks’ Victory
With a 0-3 deficit, the Dallas Mavericks showcased their determination in Game 4 of the NBA Finals. Luka Doncic’s stellar first-half performance set the stage for a dominant 122-84 win over the Boston Celtics, extending the series to Game 5.
Doncic’s Resolve and Focus
“This was a must-win game for us. We couldn’t lose. As we’ve always said, the team never gives up until the last moment,” said Doncic. Addressing previous criticisms, he added, “I’m fine. Criticism will always be there, but I just stay focused and help my team win.”
Early Lead Establishes Momentum
Despite being in a dire 0-3 position, the Mavericks struck first with Kyrie Irving scoring the opening basket. The Celtics, led by Jayson Tatum, struggled as their backup center Kristaps Porzingis sat out due to injury. In the last five minutes of the first quarter, Doncic led a 10-0 run, widening the gap with a 34-21 lead, scoring 13 points in the quarter.
Dominant First Half
In the second quarter, the Mavericks, spearheaded by Doncic, further extended their lead. Doncic’s plays demoralized the Celtics, finishing the half with 25 points and helping the Mavericks to a 61-35 lead. The Celtics’ inside game faltered, relying only on three-pointers and free throws.
Historic Performance by Doncic
Doncic’s 25 first-half points were crucial for the Mavericks’ lead. He became the third youngest player in NBA Finals history to score at least 25 points in a half, following Irving and Hakeem Olajuwon. Despite missing all eight three-point attempts, Doncic finished with 29 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 steals.
Second Half Dominance
Entering the second half, the Mavericks maintained their dominance. Daniel Gafford’s scoring spree and Irving’s timely contributions widened the lead to over 30 points with nine minutes left in the third quarter.
Securing the Win
With a substantial lead, the Mavericks rotated their lineup in the fourth quarter. Bench players Dante Exum and Tim Hardaway Jr. continued to pressure the Celtics with three-pointers. The Celtics, fielding their bench players, showed no resistance as the game turned into garbage time. The Mavericks’ 38-point win is one of the largest margins in Finals history.
Statistical Superiority
The Mavericks’ victory, which avoided a sweep, was driven by superior statistics, particularly in rebounding (52-31). Doncic scored 29 points, while Irving added 21. Tatum led the Celtics with 15 points, mostly scored early in the game, and Jaylen Brown contributed just 10 points.
Celtics Acknowledge Mavericks’ Effort
“You have to give credit to the Mavericks. They played harder, fought more, and dominated the rebounds, which allowed them to pressure us significantly. Our missed shots only worsened the situation,” said Brown. Tatum added, “This was our worst offensive game of the series. We didn’t capitalize on our opportunities. We executed well in the first three games but failed today.”
Looking Ahead to Game 5
No team in NBA history has ever come back from a 0-3 deficit in the Finals to win the championship. The Mavericks avoided a sweep and will play Game 5 on the Celtics’ home court. “We need to play like we did today in Game 5. We know it’ll be tough in their arena with their fans and atmosphere, but we must stay focused and replicate our performance,” said Doncic. (Nice88)