The 2024 NBA Finals will showcase a thrilling matchup between the Boston Celtics and the Dallas Mavericks, featuring a roster of star players. The series highlights first-team All-NBA players like Celtics forward Jayson Tatum and Mavericks guard Luka Doncic. Additional All-NBA-caliber talents such as Celtics guard Jaylen Brown and Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving add to the excitement, supported by a strong ensemble cast on both sides.
Celtics Favored for Championship
Unsurprisingly, the Celtics enter the Finals as favorites. They posted the best regular-season record in the league at 64-18, a full seven games ahead of their closest competitors. Dominating the Eastern Conference playoffs with a 12-2 record, the Celtics have also won eight consecutive road playoff games. With a homecourt advantage in the Finals, Boston’s formidable offensive and defensive capabilities present a significant challenge for any opponent.
Doncic’s Perspective
Luka Doncic acknowledged the tough road ahead for the Mavericks in a recent press conference. After leading Dallas to victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference Finals, Doncic praised the Celtics’ prowess.
“I mean, they’re the best team in the NBA,” Doncic stated. “They had by far the best record and they have some incredible weapons on offense and defense. We’re going to have to play hard and amazing basketball to beat them.”
Ernie: “The Dallas Mavericks get the Larry if…”
Luka Doncic: “We play better than Boston.”
Never change 77. pic.twitter.com/rEW4b6CGMV
— Abby Jones (@_abigaiiiil) May 31, 2024
Regular Season Encounters
During the regular season, Luka Doncic delivered stellar performances against the Celtics, averaging 35 points, 15 rebounds, and 12 assists per game in their two meetings. Despite his efforts, Boston won both games decisively—119-110 in Dallas on January 22 and 138-110 in Boston on March 1.
NBA Finals Game 1 Prop 🏆
Luka Doncic Over 39.5 Points + Rebounds
– Everyone knows celtics play single coverage which is something Luka can take advantage of.
-25 and 30 FGA both games this season with 33 and 37 points.
– Has always rebounded extremely well vs Celtics and… pic.twitter.com/m2IlTLynML— koint (@kointtt) June 1, 2024
Mavericks’ Strategy
Luka Doncic and Irving are expected to combine for 50–65 points per game in the Finals. The critical factor for Dallas will be the performance of their supporting players. The Mavericks’ role players must step up consistently to provide the additional offensive firepower needed to contend with Boston’s balanced attack.
Game 1 of the NBA Finals will tip off on Thursday, June 6, at TD Garden. Fans can look forward to comprehensive coverage from NBC Sports Boston, including pregame, halftime, and postgame analysis of every game in the series.
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