The Dallas Mavericks faced a setback in Game 2 of the NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics despite Luka Dončić’s strong performance. The Celtics managed to secure a 105-98 victory with Jrue Holiday leading the team’s offense. This win gives the Celtics a 2-0 lead in the series as they head to Dallas for Game 3.
Boston overcame poor shooting from Jayson Tatum and struggled from 3-point range in the first half. However, their defense tightened in the third quarter, capitalizing on Dallas turnovers, particularly by Dončić. The Celtics extended their lead in the third quarter and maintained control of the game, eventually sealing the win with strong defensive plays, including a crucial block by Derrick White in the final minutes.
While Tatum had a challenging shooting night, Holiday stepped up for the Celtics with an impressive offensive performance. Holiday finished with 26 points, 11 rebounds, and showcased his skills as a playmaker. Jaylen Brown also contributed with 21 points, seven assists, and solid defense.
On the other hand, Dončić put up a triple-double with 32 points, 11 assists, and 11 rebounds, but his eight turnovers proved costly for the Mavericks. Kyrie Irving struggled in the second half, finishing with 16 points and six assists, unable to find his rhythm from beyond the arc.
Despite the Mavericks’ efforts, their struggles from the free-throw line and lack of support from role players hindered their chances of a comeback. Game 3 in Dallas presents an opportunity for the Mavericks to regroup and bounce back as they aim to challenge the Celtics in the series. However, they face an uphill battle with the Celtics holding a commanding lead and momentum on their side.