Celtics Take 2-0 Lead in Finals
Dominant Third Quarter Helps Boston Pull Away from Dallas
The Boston Celtics are one step closer to their 18th NBA championship after taking a 2-0 lead over the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA Finals. The Celtics seized control of Game 2 on Thursday night, ambushing the Mavericks with a dominant two-minute span in the third quarter that helped them pull away for a 125-118 victory.
Ugly Performance from Celtics, But Still Enough to Win
Despite an ugly performance from the Celtics, the Mavericks did more to cause their own struggles than at any point in the series. Boston shot just 43% from the field and turned the ball over 15 times, but the Mavericks couldn't take advantage, shooting just 41% from the field and committing 14 turnovers of their own.
The Celtics' defense was much better in Game 2, holding the Mavericks to just 37% shooting in the second half. Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with 28 points, while Jaylen Brown added 24 points and Marcus Smart had 21 points.
Luka Doncic led the Mavericks with 26 points, but he was inefficient, shooting just 9-of-24 from the field. Spencer Dinwiddie added 21 points and Dorian Finney-Smith had 18 points.
Game 3 Sets Up Potential Series-Defining Moment
The Celtics now head back to Boston for Game 3 on Saturday night with a chance to take a commanding 3-0 lead in the series. The Mavericks, meanwhile, will be looking to avoid falling into an 0-3 hole and will need to play much better than they did in the first two games.
Game 3 is set to tip off at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.
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