BOSTON, June 10, 2024 – In a night filled with grit and intense gameplay, Luka Doncic’s remarkable performance wasn’t enough to secure a win for the Dallas Mavericks, who fell 105-98 to the Boston Celtics in Game 2 of the NBA Finals. Despite battling multiple injuries, Luka Doncic achieved a historic triple-double, the first in the Mavericks’ Finals history, but it was the Celtics who walked away with a commanding 2-0 series lead.
The game unfolded with high stakes as Luka Doncic, playing with a sprained knee and a freshly bruised chest, led his team with 32 points, 11 assists, and 11 rebounds.
“Every game we lose is a missed opportunity,” Luka Doncic stated postgame, emphasizing the high pressure and slim margins in the Finals. His performance marked his 10th career playoff triple-double, showcasing his undeniable impact on the court.
However, the Mavericks struggled collectively, shooting only 44% from the field and a dismal 23% from beyond the arc. In contrast, the Celtics also had an off-night shooting but managed to clutch critical baskets and maintain a slight edge throughout the game.
Boston Celtics Leverage Team Effort to Overcome Off Night
The Celtics, led by Jrue Holiday with 26 points and Jayson Tatum, who nearly secured a triple-double himself, took advantage of the Mavericks’ misfires. Tatum, despite his own shooting woes, contributed crucial plays that kept the Celtics in the lead.
“We have to make shots to win the game,” Luka Doncic remarked, highlighting the night’s competitive nature and the fine line between victory and defeat.
Boston’s ability to perform under pressure was evident as they maintained their unbeaten streak on the road this postseason, demonstrating resilience and tactical superiority. The Celtics’ balanced attack and defensive strategies have posed significant challenges for Dallas, which now faces the daunting task of overcoming a two-game deficit.
Luka Doncic: Game 3 in Dallas
As the series shifts back to Dallas for Game 3, the Mavericks are under immense pressure to reclaim their footing in this best-of-seven showdown. The Mavericks’ coach, Jason Kidd, commented on the need for improvement, particularly in free throws and turnovers, which were costly in Game 2.
“The small things, we have to do the small things, and that’s part of the game,” Kidd explained, underlining the adjustments needed for the upcoming games.
Luka Doncic’s resilience and determination to play despite his injuries have not only inspired his teammates but also Mavericks fans, who are hopeful for a turnaround in the series. The upcoming game in Dallas will be critical for the Mavericks to leverage their home-court advantage and reignite their campaign for the championship.
As the NBA Finals progress, all eyes will be on Luka Doncic and the Mavericks to see if they can counter the Celtics’ momentum and bring new life to their championship aspirations. The battle continues Wednesday, and it promises to be a pivotal moment in this high-stakes NBA drama.
