After losing 107-89 in Game 1, the Mavericks were under pressure to prove they could compete in the Finals. They got closer in Game 2 but still lost 105-98, falling to 0-2 in the series.
In Game 1, no Mavericks players stood out. In Game 2, Luka Doncic was the best player with 32 points, 11 assists, and 11 rebounds, keeping Dallas in the game. However, it wasn’t enough as Boston proved to be the better team again. Here are the main takeaways from another strong Celtics performance:
7 Takeaways from Game 2 of the 2024 NBA Finals
How healthy is Luka Doncic?
Before Game 2, there were concerns about Luka’s health due to a charge he took in the previous game. Despite grimacing during warmups, he played well, scoring 32 points on 57.1% shooting. He was particularly hot in the first half, scoring 23 points and shooting 69%. Although the Celtics tried to guard him one-on-one, Luka’s difficult shots were often successful. Jayson Tatum forced Luka into eight turnovers, but Luka still led his team effectively.
Can anyone on Dallas besides Luka make a 3?
The Mavericks shot poorly from 3-point range, hitting only 6 of 26 (23.1%). Without Luka’s 4 of 9, their percentage dropped to 11.8%. Boston left many Dallas players open for non-corner 3s, but they struggled to make them. Derrick Jones Jr. and P.J. Washington had open shots but missed many. Maxi Kleber, intended as a stretch option, missed all four of his shots and hesitated to shoot. Kyrie Irving also struggled, making only 7 of 18 field goals and missing all three 3-point attempts.
Did Jayson Tatum take Jason Kidd’s bait?
Before the game, Kidd suggested Jaylen Brown was Boston’s best player, perhaps to unsettle Tatum. Tatum responded with 12 assists and strong drives but shot poorly, making only 6 of 22 shots. The Celtics haven’t needed Tatum to be at his best yet, but he will need to improve to help his team.
How Dallas is trying to generate easy points
Dallas tried to push the pace to catch Boston’s defense off guard, leading to some success but also some out-of-control plays. They also posted up Daniel Gafford against Tatum, which worked well and might be used more in Game 3.
What happens when Boston actually starts making 3s?
Boston missed many open 3s, shooting just 10 of 39 (25.6%). Despite this and Luka’s strong game, Dallas trailed for most of the second half. They had a chance to cut the lead but Derrick White’s defense and a possible missed call on Jaylen Brown allowed Boston to secure the win.
Jrue Holiday shines
Holiday was crucial for the Celtics, scoring 26 points and grabbing 11 rebounds. He made key plays throughout the game, including late in the fourth quarter. He also played excellent defense on Irving and others.
Is Kristaps Porzingis okay?
Porzingis appeared to be limping after bumping into Washington late in the game and was subbed out with 4:40 left. Coach Joe Mazzulla expressed no concern about Porzingis’ calf, but his mobility will be worth watching heading into Game 3.