Dallas Mavericks Face Boston Celtics in NBA Finals Opener

Game 1 of NBA Finals Set for Thursday Night in Boston

After an extended break, the 2024 NBA Finals are finally set to begin on Thursday night, with the Dallas Mavericks traveling to TD Garden to take on the Boston Celtics in Game 1. The Celtics, who finished the regular season with the league's best record, will be looking to claim their 18th NBA championship, while the Mavericks will be aiming for their first title since 2011.

Celtics Hold Slight Edge

The Celtics enter the Finals as the slight favorites, thanks in part to their superior record and more experienced roster. Boston has won 26 of its last 30 games, including a 4-1 victory over the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference Finals. The Celtics are led by Jayson Tatum, who is averaging 29.5 points per game in the playoffs, and Jaylen Brown, who is contributing 25.0 points per game.

The Mavericks, meanwhile, have been a surprise package in the playoffs, overcoming injuries to Luka Doncic and Spencer Dinwiddie to reach the Finals. Doncic, who is widely regarded as one of the best players in the NBA, is averaging 30.6 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 7.3 assists per game in the postseason.

Key Matchups to Watch

There are several key matchups to watch in the NBA Finals. One of the most intriguing will be the battle between Tatum and Doncic, two of the most talented young players in the league. Another matchup to watch will be the battle of the big men, with Celtics center Robert Williams III likely to face off against Mavericks center Christian Wood.

The Mavericks will also need to find a way to slow down Brown, who has been one of the most consistent players for the Celtics in the playoffs. On the other end of the floor, the Celtics will need to keep an eye on Dinwiddie, who is averaging 18.8 points per game in the postseason.

Conclusion

The 2024 NBA Finals are shaping up to be a classic matchup between two of the most talented teams in the league. The Celtics have the experience and home-court advantage, but the Mavericks have the momentum and a superstar in Doncic. It should be a fascinating series that comes down to the wire.