Celtics Take 2-0 Series Lead in NBA Finals

Boston's Depth Overwhelms Dallas

The Boston Celtics proved their depth and resilience in Game 2 of the NBA Finals, defeating the Dallas Mavericks 105-98 to take a commanding 2-0 series lead. Despite a subpar shooting performance from beyond the arc, the Celtics' balanced scoring attack and strong defense proved too much for Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving's Mavericks.

Luka-Kyrie Duo Falters

Dončić and Irving struggled to find their rhythm in Game 2, combining for just 39 points on 16-of-43 shooting. Dončić, who averaged 28.6 points in the playoffs before the Finals, finished with 21 points on 8-of-22 shooting. Irving, who had been a key contributor in Game 1, managed only 18 points on 6-of-15 shooting.

Celtics Ground Mavs Bigs

Boston's defense was particularly effective in neutralizing Dallas's big men. Christian Wood, who had averaged 14.9 points and 9.6 rebounds in the playoffs, was held to just 12 points and 4 rebounds. Tim Hardaway Jr., another key scorer for the Mavericks, managed only 4 points on 2-of-13 shooting.