Celtics Secure 2-0 Lead Over Mavericks in NBA Finals

The Boston Celtics beat the Dallas Mavericks 98-105 in Game 2 of the 2024 NBA Finals to take a commanding 2-0 lead in the series.

The Celtics were led by veteran guard Jrue Holiday, who had 26 points, 11 rebounds, and three assists. Jayson Tatum had a near triple-double with 18 points, nine rebounds, and 12 assists, while Jaylen Brown added 21 points and seven assists.

While the Celtics were lifted by Holiday, Tatum, and Brown’s balanced play, they also benefited from the struggles of Mavs’ key players. Kyrie Irving had another poor shooting performance, making seven of 18 shots and scoring an uncharacteristically low 16 points. Dallas’ superstar Luka Doncic scored 32 points and had a triple-double, the first ever for Mavs players in the NBA Finals, but managed just nine points in the second half.

Speaking after the game, Doncic took the blame for the loss, saying his turnovers and struggles on the free throw line cost Dallas the game. He was questionable before the game due to knee issues but said that he felt “OK” physically.

“I always want to play. All day, we did a lot of things to get ready,” Doncic added.

The Mavs are now heading home to Dallas for Games 3 and 4, hoping to bounce back and get back into the series. Game 3 of the NBA Finals is scheduled for Wednesday night.