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Dallas is just one win away from the NBA Finals, while the Boston Celtics await them on the other side.
By Ryan Galloway | May 26, 2024
Photo by Michael Dwyer/AP Photo
As the 2024 NBA Finals approach, basketball fans are preparing for, in all likelihood, a showdown between the Dallas Mavericks and the Boston Celtics. This is a promising matchup and will be the Celtics’ greatest challenge thus far a playoff that has seen them face off against mid-tier teams that have been marred with injuries. And for those laughing at the Celtics' easy path to the Finals (which is out of their control), look up the 80’s Lakers. Anyway, let’s assess the expected Finals matchup.
Road to the Finals
Dallas Mavericks: The Mavericks have been a formidable force in the Western Conference this season, led by their dynamic duo of Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving. Dončić, a perennial MVP candidate, has dazzled with his playmaking and volume scoring, while Irving's clutch performances and veteran leadership have been crucial to their success. The Mavericks' journey to the Finals has seen them dispatch the talented young OKC Thunder team in six, as well as knocking out the LA Clippers in six games in a series that wasn’t as close as the score suggests.
Boston Celtics: The Celtics, on the other hand, will emerge as the Eastern Conference champions by defeating the lowly Indiana Pacers to cap off a nice stroll to the Finals. Led by their superstar duo Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, Boston has displayed a perfect blend of offense and defense. Their deep roster, including key contributions from Jrue Holiday, Al Horford, and Derrick White, has been instrumental in their success. It is worth noting this has occurred in the absence of the Celtics’ third-highest scorer Kristaps Porzingis, who is expected to play in the Finals.
Key Matchups
Luka Dončić vs. Jayson Tatum: This battle of young superstars will be the centerpiece of the Finals. Dončić's ability to control the game with his vision and scoring will be tested against Tatum's versatility and defensive acumen. Both players are capable of taking over games, and their performances will heavily influence their respective team's chances.
Kyrie Irving vs. Jrue Holiday: (or Derrick White) Irving's offensive brilliance will go head-to-head with Holiday’s tenacious defense. Holiday (and White), the recently elected All-Defensive 2nd Teamer, will be tasked with slowing down Irving, who has been spectacular in clutch moments throughout the playoffs. Holiday has come up big on the defensive end for the Celtics all year, and recently had a game-winning steal against the Pacers in Game 3.
Coaching Battle: Joe Mazzulla will finally be coaching against someone his equal in Jason Kidd. A big story for this Celtics team has been simply being outcoached in big moments. To be fair, Mazzulla is a second-year head coach who took the reins of a championship-caliber team on a whim with no prior experience. As with all year, look for Mazzulla to continue to grow and learn how to coach in these big spots. On the other hand, Kidd's experience and ability to adapt on the fly will be crucial for the Mavs and hope to catch the Celtics flat-footed.
X-Factors
Dallas Mavericks: The Mavericks' supporting cast, including PJ Washington., Daniel Gafford, and Dereck Lively II, will need to step up. Their ability to hit timely shots and provide defensive support will be vital in a series where every possession counts.
Boston Celtics: For the Celtics, the performance of Horford and Porzingis in the paint will be critical. Their ability to protect the rim and control the boards can tilt the series in Boston's favor, especially if they can limit the Mavericks' second-chance opportunities, as well as drives inside from Irving and Luka.
Predictions
This Finals series promises to be a good one. The Mavericks' high-octane offense, spearheaded by Dončić and Irving, will clash with the Celtics' balanced attack and staunch defense. Key factors such as health, bench contributions, and coaching adjustments will play significant roles.
If the Mavericks can maintain their offensive efficiency and get consistent contributions from their role players, they have a good chance of winning their first title since 2011. However, the Celtics' depth, defensive intensity, and three-pointers might give them the edge needed to capture their 18th NBA championship, adding to their storied legacy.
I’m going with the Celtics in six games. I think the Maverick's offensive brilliance from Dončić and Irving will be enough to get them a couple, but this Celtics team is too big to fail, and they will finally raise banner 18.