Bostons Depth Proves Too Much for Dallas, the Luka-Kyrie Duo

Mavs Fall in Game 1 of NBA Finals

Celtics' Bench Outplays Dallas' Starters

The Boston Celtics, the Eastern Conference's top team, proved their depth in Game 1 of the NBA Finals, defeating the Dallas Mavericks 118-107. Despite a strong performance from Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving, the Celtics' bench outplayed their Dallas counterparts, outscoring them 45-15.

Dončić led the Mavericks with 36 points and 12 rebounds, while Irving contributed 27 points. However, the Celtics received contributions from a variety of players, including Al Horford (18 points, 10 rebounds), Jaylen Brown (23 points), and Derrick White (12 points, 9 assists).

The Celtics' bench was particularly effective in the third quarter, helping them break open a close game. They scored 21 points and limited the Mavericks to just 14 points in the period, giving Boston a 96-79 lead heading into the fourth quarter.

Mavs Struggle from Deep

The Mavericks, who ranked second in the NBA in three-point shooting during the regular season, struggled from behind the arc in Game 1. They shot just 10-of-34 (29.4%) from deep, while the Celtics hit 13-of-24 (54.2%) from three-point range.

The Celtics' defense, led by Marcus Smart, limited Dončić and Irving's ability to create good looks from deep. Dončić, who averaged 4.6 made three-pointers per game during the playoffs, hit just 2-of-11 from beyond the arc.

Conclusion

The Celtics' victory in Game 1 is a testament to their depth and team play. They were able to withstand a strong performance from Dončić and Irving by getting contributions from a variety of players, including their bench. The Mavericks will need to find a way to get more production from their bench and improve their three-point shooting if they want to bounce back in Game 2.