BOSTON (AP) – The Boston Celtics delivered a commanding performance in Dallas Mavericks vs OKC Thunder Game 1 of the NBA Finals, defeating the Dallas Mavericks 107-89. Kristaps Porzingis, returning after a month-long absence due to a calf injury, made a significant impact off the bench. Jaylen Brown led the scoring for the Celtics with 22 points, while Porzingis added 20 points in just 21 minutes of play.
Dallas Mavericks vs OKC Thunder Match Game Information
| Date | June 7, 2024 |
| Location | TD Garden, Boston, MA, Officials |
| Officials | Courtney Kirkland, Zach Zarba, Josh Tiven |
Dallas Mavericks vs OKC Thunder Match Stats
| Team | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 | Final | |||
| DAL | 20 | 22 | 24 | 23 | 89 | |||
| BOS | 37 | 26 | 23 | 21 | 107 | |||
| Team | PITP | FB PTS | BIG LD | BPTS | TREB | TOV | TTOV | POT |
| DAL | 46 | 6 | 4 | 20 | 7 | 11 | 0 | 13 |
| BOS | 38 | 10 | 29 | 32 | 8 | 12 | 2 | 18 |
| Lead Changes | 8 | |||||||
| Times Tied | 2 |
Jaylen Brown Shines as Celtics Take Early Lead
Jaylen Brown was instrumental in the Celtics’ victory, contributing 22 points and setting the tone early. His aggressive play and scoring ability helped the Celtics build a substantial lead in the first half, where they led by as much as 29 points. Brown’s performance was complemented by the impressive play of Kristaps Porzingis, who showed no signs of rust despite his extended layoff.
Porzingis Returns with a Bang
Porzingis, who had been sidelined since April 29, made a triumphant return by scoring 20 points, grabbing six rebounds, and blocking three shots in just 21 minutes. His presence was felt immediately as he energized the home crowd and contributed to the Celtics’ dominant first-half performance.
“Tonight was an affirmation to myself that I’m pretty good,” Porzingis said. “I’m not perfect but I can play like this and I can add to this team.”
Celtics’ Balanced Attack and Defensive Prowess
Derrick White and Jayson Tatum’s Contributions
Derrick White added 15 points for Boston, while All-Star Jayson Tatum recorded a double-double with 16 points and 11 rebounds. The Celtics showcased their depth and versatility, with six players scoring in double figures. Their offensive prowess was matched by their defensive efforts, limiting the Mavericks to just 89 points and stifling their offensive rhythm.
Defensive Stalwart: Porzingis’ Impact
Porzingis’ defensive impact was crucial, as he blocked three shots and altered several others. His ability to protect the rim and contribute offensively made him a key factor in the Celtics’ success.
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Dallas Mavericks’ Struggles
Luka Doncic’s Lone Battle
Luka Doncic led the Mavericks with 30 points, but he received little support from his teammates. P.J. Washington was the only other Dallas player to score in double figures, adding 14 points and eight rebounds. The Mavericks struggled to find offensive consistency, totaling just nine assists on their 35 field goals and failing to score 25 points in any quarter.
Kyrie Irving’s Tough Night
Former Celtic Kyrie Irving had a challenging night, finishing with just 12 points. He faced a hostile reception from the Boston crowd, who booed him throughout the game. Irving’s struggles were emblematic of the Mavericks’ overall difficulties in Game 1.
Dallas Mavericks vs OKC Thunder Key Moments
Boston’s Early Surge: The Celtics took control of the game early, outscoring the Mavericks 44-16 to build a 58-29 lead in the second quarter. Their combination of strong defense, efficient shooting, and ball movement overwhelmed the Mavericks.
Dallas’ Third-Quarter Rally: The Mavericks showed signs of life in the third quarter, cutting the deficit to eight points with a 35-14 run led by Doncic. However, the Celtics quickly responded with a 14-0 run to regain control and secure the victory.
Porzingis’ Stellar First Quarter: Porzingis made an immediate impact after entering the game in the first quarter. He scored 11 points, blocked two shots, and grabbed three rebounds in just over five minutes of play, helping the Celtics establish a commanding lead.
Coaches’ Reactions on Dallas Mavericks vs OKC Thunder
Joe Mazzulla on Porzingis’ Performance
Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla praised Porzingis for his aggressive play and seamless integration back into the lineup. “That’s the KP that helped us get to where we are today,” Mazzulla said. “It doesn’t matter how long the guy is off, he’s going to make plays.”
Jason Kidd on Mavericks’ Struggles
Mavericks coach Jason Kidd emphasized the need for better ball movement and offensive execution. “We’ve got to move the ball,” Kidd said. “The ball got stuck too much.”
Looking Ahead: Game 2 and Beyond
Celtics’ Momentum: The Celtics will look to build on their Game 1 victory as they aim for their 18th NBA title. Their balanced attack and defensive tenacity will be key factors in their quest for the championship.
Mavericks’ Adjustments: The Mavericks will need to regroup and find ways to support Doncic offensively. Improved ball movement and contributions from other players will be crucial as they seek to even the series in Game 2.
Jaylen Brown’s Focus: Brown emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and not getting complacent. “Getting back to this point and being here is really a big deal,” Tatum said. “But two years ago we won the first game and we know the outcome of that series. We still have a lot of work to do.”
Porzingis’ Continued Impact: Porzingis’ successful return provides a significant boost for the Celtics. His ability to contribute on both ends of the floor will be vital as the series progresses.
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Dallas Mavericks Match Player Stats and Box Score
| PLAYER | MIN | FGM | FGA | FG% | 3:00 PM | 3PA | 3P% | FTM | FTA | FT% | OREB | DREB | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PF | PTS | +/- |
| Derrick Jones Jr.F | 28:47:00 | 2 | 9 | 22.2 | 1 | 2 | 50 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 5 | -12 |
| P.J. WashingtonF | 36:07:00 | 5 | 11 | 45.5 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 4 | 6 | 66.7 | 3 | 5 | 8 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 14 | -15 |
| Daniel GaffordC | 14:19 | 3 | 3 | 100 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 100 | 3 | 0 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 8 | -10 |
| Kyrie IrvingG | 36:29:00 | 6 | 19 | 31.6 | 0 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 3 | 2 | 12 | -19 |
| Luka DoncicG | 38:14:00 | 12 | 26 | 46.2 | 4 | 12 | 33.3 | 2 | 5 | 40 | 0 | 10 | 10 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 4 | 1 | 30 | -10 |
| Dereck Lively II | 18:29 | 1 | 1 | 100 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 4 | 5 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 5 | 2 | -15 |
| Jaden Hardy | 10:41 | 4 | 8 | 50 | 1 | 3 | 33.3 | 4 | 4 | 100 | 0 | 3 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 13 | -3 |
| Josh Green | 20:17 | 1 | 4 | 25 | 1 | 1 | 100 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 | -5 |
| Maxi Kleber | 18:40 | 1 | 1 | 100 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | -15 |
| Tim Hardaway Jr. | 7:42 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Dante Exum | 5:17 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 7 |
| Dwight Powell | 4:58 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 7 |
| AJ Lawson | DNP – Coach’s Decision | |||||||||||||||||||
| Markieff Morris | DNP – Coach’s Decision | |||||||||||||||||||
| Olivier-Maxence Prosper | DNP – Coach’s Decision | |||||||||||||||||||
| TOTALS | 35 | 84 | 41.7 | 7 | 27 | 25.9 | 12 | 19 | 63.2 | 10 | 33 | 43 | 9 | 8 | 1 | 11 | 16 | 89 | -18 | |
Boston Celtics Match Player Stats and Box Score
| PLAYER | MIN | FGM | FGA | FG% | 3:00 PM | 3PA | 3P% | FTM | FTA | FT% | OREB | DREB | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PF | PTS | +/- |
| Jaylen BrownF | 37:14:00 | 7 | 12 | 58.3 | 2 | 6 | 33.3 | 6 | 11 | 54.5 | 1 | 5 | 6 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 22 | 12 |
| Jayson TatumF | 42:09:00 | 6 | 16 | 37.5 | 3 | 7 | 42.9 | 1 | 2 | 50 | 2 | 9 | 11 | 5 | 0 | 1 | 6 | 1 | 16 | 19 |
| Al HorfordC | 29:48:00 | 4 | 8 | 50 | 2 | 5 | 40 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 5 | 7 | 3 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 10 | 7 |
| Derrick WhiteG | 35:10:00 | 5 | 11 | 45.5 | 3 | 8 | 37.5 | 2 | 2 | 100 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 5 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 3 | 15 | 3 |
| Jrue HolidayG | 34:54:00 | 4 | 9 | 44.4 | 2 | 5 | 40 | 2 | 2 | 100 | 2 | 6 | 8 | 5 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 12 | 20 |
| Kristaps Porzingis | 20:34 | 8 | 13 | 61.5 | 2 | 4 | 50 | 2 | 2 | 100 | 0 | 6 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 20 | 13 |
| Sam Hauser | 16:02:00 | 3 | 4 | 75 | 2 | 2 | 100 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 8 | 17 |
| Payton Pritchard | 15:30:00 | 0 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 4 |
| Luke Kornet | 3:19 | 1 | 1 | 100 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 | -3 |
| Oshae Brissett | 2:40:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | -1 |
| Svi Mykhailiuk | 2:40:00 | 1 | 1 | 100 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | -1 |
| Neemias Queta | DNP – Coach’s Decision | |||||||||||||||||||
| Jaden Springer | DNP – Coach’s Decision | |||||||||||||||||||
| Xavier Tillman | DNP – Coach’s Decision | |||||||||||||||||||
| Jordan Walsh | DNP – Coach’s Decision | |||||||||||||||||||
| TOTALS | 39 | 82 | 47.6 | 16 | 42 | 38.1 | 13 | 19 | 68.4 | 10 | 37 | 47 | 23 | 6 | 9 | 12 | 16 | 107 | 18 | |
Conclusion on Dallas Mavericks vs OKC Thunder
Dallas Mavericks vs OKC Thunder, The Celtics’ dominant performance in Game 1 of the NBA Finals sets the tone for an exciting series. With contributions from key players like Brown, Porzingis, and Tatum, Boston looks poised to make a strong push for the championship. The Mavericks, led by Doncic, will need to make significant adjustments to counter the Celtics’ balanced attack and defensive intensity.
