Celtics Turn Up Heat from Deep in Game 3
Mavs Struggle to Keep Pace as Boston Extends Lead
Dallas Faces Uphill Battle to Avoid Sweep in NBA Finals
The Boston Celtics turned a close contest into a comfortable lead in Game 3 of the 2024 NBA Finals, defeating the Dallas Mavericks 107-97. The Celtics' sharpshooting performance and relentless defense proved too much for the Mavericks, who now face an uphill battle to avoid a sweep in the series.
The Celtics started the game slowly, trailing by five points at the end of the first quarter. However, they found their rhythm in the second quarter, led by Jayson Tatum's 15 points. The Mavericks stayed within striking distance, thanks in part to Luka Doncic's 13 points and Kyrie Irving's 12. But the Celtics took control in the third quarter, outscoring the Mavericks 32-22. Jason Kidd's decision to pull Doncic early in the fourth quarter proved costly as the Celtics extended their lead and cruised to victory.
The Celtics' three-point shooting was a major factor in their victory. They made 15 of 40 attempts from deep, compared to the Mavericks' 8 of 24. Tatum led the way with six three-pointers, while Jaylen Brown and Derrick White each contributed three. The Mavericks, who entered the game as the league's best three-point shooting team, struggled to find their range all night.
The Celtics' defense was also impressive, holding the Mavericks to 42.9% shooting from the field. Doncic was held to just 26 points, while Irving scored 18 and Christian Wood added 16. The Celtics' length and athleticism disrupted the Mavericks' offense, forcing them into tough shots and turnovers.
With the victory, the Celtics take a commanding 3-0 lead in the series. Game 4 will be played in Dallas on Friday night. The Mavericks will need to find a way to generate more offense and improve their defense if they want to avoid a sweep and extend the series.
The Celtics, on the other hand, are one win away from their 18th NBA championship. They have shown a remarkable ability to adjust to the Mavericks' different tactics and have played with great composure and confidence.
The 2024 NBA Finals has been a fascinating matchup between two evenly matched teams. However, the Celtics' depth, experience, and execution have proven to be the difference so far. The Mavericks will need to find a way to turn the tide in Game 4 if they want to keep their championship hopes alive.
Komentar