Can Mavericks’ Sharpshooters Rebound in Critical Game 2?
The Dallas Mavericks’ dynamic offense, characterized by alley-oops and corner threes, was stifled by the Boston Celtics in Game 1 of the NBA Finals. The Mavs, who had averaged 67 lob dunks through their first 17 playoff games, managed just one in their 107-89 loss. This disruption played a significant role in Dallas’s inability to gain momentum and ultimately cost them the game.
By switching their matchups in Game 1, the Celtics never gave Luka Doncic or Kyrie Irving space to find their vertical targets.
Celtics’ Defensive Prowess
Boston’s defensive strategy was crucial in neutralizing Dallas’s aerial game. Celtics forward Jayson Tatum highlighted their approach: “Bigs and guards, we switch, we take on the challenge of individual defense, understanding that we have help.” This relentless switching kept bodies on Dallas’s big men, like Daniel Gafford and Dereck Lively II, preventing them from executing their signature high-flying plays.
Players like Derrick Jones Jr., known for their ability to finish lobs and drive to the basket, were significantly impacted. Jones Jr. missed three dunk attempts in Game 1, a testament to Boston’s defensive pressure. The Celtics’ ability to clog the paint with defenders like Jaylen Brown and the returning Kristaps Porzingis forced Dallas into uncomfortable positions and disrupted their offensive flow.
Strategic Adjustments Needed
Dallas head coach Jason Kidd acknowledged the need for adjustments. “Boston is going to give the layup to Luka, so he’s got to take it. They’re not going to give him the lob, and they are not going to give the corner 3,” Kidd explained. This suggests a shift towards more direct scoring opportunities for Doncic and Irving, rather than relying on highlight-reel plays.
Backup big Maxi Kleber, who offers more shooting range than Gafford and Lively, might see increased minutes. Kleber noted the challenges posed by Boston’s switching defense: “We don’t create as much of an advantage to attack the rim because the defender doesn’t come. It’s OK if we don’t have that. We just got to make sure after that we get in the right spots and still create the best shots.”
Mavericks Focus on Execution
For the Mavericks to bounce back, they need to execute their plays with precision and adapt to the Celtics’ defensive schemes. Lively emphasized the importance of starting strong: “We need to make sure we make ’em uncomfortable from the jump. We should have come out and thrown the first punch instead of taking the first punch.”
Dallas’s ability to adapt and create scoring opportunities without relying heavily on their lob plays will be crucial in Game 2. The Mavericks must enhance their ball movement, capitalize on individual matchups, and improve their shooting efficiency to re-establish their offensive threat.
As the Mavericks prepare for Game 2, they must address the defensive challenges posed by the Celtics and find new ways to unleash their high-flying offense. The series is far from over, and with the right adjustments, Dallas can reignite their aerial prowess and level the playing field.
