Key Takeaways:
– The Boston Celtics triumphed over the Dallas Mavericks in Game 2 of the NBA Finals.
– Magic Johnson admired the Celtics’ team performance despite Tatum and Brown not taking the lead in scoring.
– Johnson criticized the Mavericks’ game, stating they need to propel their pace and boost their ball movement.
– After Game 1, Johnson pinpointed Porzingis as the catalyst behind the Celtics’ victory.
– According to Johnson, the Celtics have greater depth and firepower compared to the Mavericks.
Boston Celtics Enjoy NBA Finals Game 2 Triumph
The Boston Celtics showcased their team play by securing a win against the Dallas Mavericks in Game 2 of the NBA finals. Lakers legend, Magic Johnson, expressed admiration for their commendable play. Interestingly, this nod of approval comes despite the fact that neither Jayson Tatum nor Jaylen Brown were leading scorers for the Celtics.
Johnson Praises the Celtics
Johnson lauded the Celtics’ achievement stating, “The Celtics continue to showcase their immense talent, overpowering the Mavericks and securing a win even without their stars Tatum and Brown taking the scoring lead. Their dominance in the paint and perimeter was noticeably impressive”.
Significantly, Jrue Holiday shone with his 26-point performance, going 9-9 in the paint. Additionally, four other Celtics scored in double figures, further demonstrating their teamwork and depth.
Johnson’s feud with the Celtics during his career as a Laker is a historic rivalry. Nevertheless, he doesn’t hesitate to applaud the Celtics when they perform well.
After this win, the Celtics lead the series by 2-0, taking the edge as they return to Dallas. With potential for the Mavericks to even up the series at home, the Celtics remain undefeated on the road.
Johnson Criticizes the Mavericks
Johnson wasn’t all praise though. He faulted the Mavericks, criticizing them for being spectators whilst Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving battled individually. He urged for more ball movement and faster pacing in the team.
While Doncic managed to score 30-plus points in the finals, Irving’s performance has been comparatively below par, scoring only 28 points on a bleak 13-for-37 shooting figure from the field. Their team’s struggles, coupled with Irving’s underperformance, has seen the Mavericks down 0-2 in the series.
Points to Remember from Game 1
Rewinding to Game 1, Johnson highlighted Kristaps Porzingis as the game-changer, asserting that Porzingis initiated the spark for the Celtics. He ended the game with an impressive 20 points, having managed to score 10 in the first quarter alone.
Lauding the Celtics’ defense, Johnson said, “The Celtics defense smothered the Mavs and took them completely out of their game.” As per Johnson, the Celtics’ depth and firepower exceed that of the Mavericks.
The Celtics have been performing remarkably well, largely due to their strong lineup. Despite Porzingis not being at full-strength, his contribution has significantly boosted the Celtics while keeping Al Horford fresh off the bench. Beyond doubt, their depth could very well be key to the Celtics securing their 18th banner.