Celtics defeat Mavericks 107-89, Kristaps Porzingis returns from injury
Boston takes Game 1 of NBA Finals
Porzingis shines in return, dropping 20 points
The Boston Celtics defeated the Dallas Mavericks 107-89 in Game 1 of the 2024 NBA Finals on Thursday night at TD Garden. Kristaps Porzingis, returning from a calf injury, led the Celtics with 20 points, including 18 in the second half.
After a slow start, the Celtics took control of the game in the second quarter, outscoring the Mavericks 34-18. Porzingis was a major factor in the Celtics' run, hitting three 3-pointers in the period.
The Mavericks never recovered from the Celtics' second-quarter surge, and Boston cruised to a comfortable victory. Jayson Tatum added 19 points for the Celtics, while Jaylen Brown chipped in with 17.
Luka Dončić led the Mavericks with 24 points, but he was not as efficient as usual, shooting just 8-of-22 from the field. Porzingis' return gives the Celtics a major boost, as he provides them with another scoring threat and a solid defender.
The Celtics will look to take a 2-0 lead in the series when they host Game 2 on Sunday night at TD Garden.
Conclusion
The Celtics' victory in Game 1 is a major statement, as they showed that they can win even when Porzingis is not at his best. The Mavericks will need to make some adjustments if they want to even the series in Game 2.
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