The Dallas Mavericks Crush Celtics in Historic Playoff Victory

The Dallas Mavericks kept their NBA Finals hopes alive with a commanding 122-84 victory, preventing the Boston Celtics from completing a clean sweep in the best-of-seven championship series. Led by Luka Doncic’s 29 points and Kyrie Irving’s 21, the Mavericks halted their opponents’ 10-game playoff winning streak marking the third-largest win in Finals history.

Despite their emphatic win, the Mavericks face a daunting task of overcoming a 3-0 deficit to win the NBA playoff series with game five scheduled in Boston on Tuesday at 01:30 BST. Reflecting on their critical win, Slovenian star Doncic emphasized the team’s determination and belief, stressing their elevated energy and defensive focus throughout the game.

Dallas took control early, leading 34-21 after the first quarter and extending their dominance to a commanding 61-35 halftime lead. Doncic and Irving contributed significantly until they were subbed out with one minute and 29 seconds left in the third quarter with the Mavericks comfortably ahead 92-57.

Off the bench, Tim Hardaway Jr. added 15 points, while rookie Dereck Lively II contributed 11 points, showcasing Dallas’ depth and resilience. Boston’s head coach Joe Mazzulla also made strategic substitutions in the third period, preparing for the pivotal game five as they seek their 18th NBA title.

Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown struggled for the Celtics, managing only 15 and 10 points respectively, as they endured their most lopsided defeat in Finals history. Mazzulla acknowledged Dallas’ formidable performance, praising their energy, physicality and overall quality that has brought them to this stage of the playoffs.