The Boston Celtics didn’t take long to prove pre-series predictions right after dominating the Dallas Mavericks to take Game 1 of the 2024 NBA Finals. It was a master class that showcased how well-built the Boston roster has become over the years into a seemingly unstoppable team.
The Celtics had everything going for them in Game 1 if you look at how Game 1 went. While the Mavericks managed to creep closer throughout the series opener, the Celtics kept the lead and their opponents at bay.
With the Celtics setting the tempo for the Finals, teams are now eager to dissect what happened in Game 1 and what helped the Eastern Conference champs overcome their Western Conference opponents.
LeBron James gave his two cents on the issue, and his take will make many fans think.
LeBron James believes the Boston Celtics lineup is a nightmare to deal with for Dallas
In the latest episode of the Mind the Game podcast with JJ Redick, LeBron discussed why the Boston Celtics would be a tough matchup for the Dallas Mavericks in the Finals.
Vishwesha Kumar of Fadeaway World wrote about LeBron’s take on what the Celtics will rely on in Game 1:
“You know, that’s going to be a big-time challenge and obviously, personnel-wise, you see who’s on the floor, but at the end of the day, if Porzingis is active, then nine times out of ten, they’re going to have five shooters on the floor.”
“So that will be the biggest question mark, JJ, on who guards Porzingis. So I think what helps in Dallas case um if that is the case having Maxi Kleber back. So I think that helps a lot. I know he’s been out for a while since round one versus the Clippers, but it does allow them to now start switching a lot.”
The Boston Celtics’ effectiveness from deep was on full display as they made 38.1% of their 42 three-point attempts. Meanwhile, the Mavericks only converted seven of their 27 shot attempts from long range.
Moreover, Porzingis was the difference maker for the C’s from the bench. The Latvian finished the Finals opener with 20 points on only 21 minutes of game time. The Mavs failed to find a way to contain him whenever he was on the floor.
Joe Muzzalla will not tweak what works, so the Celtics will keep on raining threes on the Mavericks defense. It’s up to Jason Kidd and his coaching staff to make the necessary adjustments and make the series a more competitive one.
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