Summary
P.J. Washington made two pivotal 3-pointers and scored eight points as the Mavericks went on an impressive 22-2 run.
However, Dallas still found themselves needing more consistent scoring beyond their star duo, Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving.
The Celtics, in stark contrast, have showcased multiple leading scorers throughout the series.
Dallas's Struggles with Boston's Defensive Strategy
Dallas struggled significantly against Boston's strategic decision not to double-team Doncic. Instead, the Celtics implemented single coverage on both Doncic and Irving, effectively neutralizing the impact of Dallas's role players. The Mavericks’ role players usually thrive on the opportunities generated by their star ball-handlers, but in this series, they have faltered.
Boston's Depth vs. Dallas's Reliance on Stars
Boston's bench players have outperformed those of Dallas, with this depth proving to be a significant advantage. The Celtics have employed a balanced team approach that starkly contrasts with Dallas's reliance on star players. While Boston's role players are not asked to exceed their capabilities, allowing them to stay within their strengths, Dallas’s supporting cast struggles whenever their superstars are kept in check.
The decline of Tim Hardaway Jr. and the inexperience of Jaden Hardy have further disrupted Dallas's offensive rhythm. The team's system does not support a consistent scoring rhythm for the role players, exacerbating the issue.
Quotes Illustrating the Series Dynamics
Quotes within the series reveal the dynamics at play:
"Washington's 3-pointer with 1:04 remaining in the third quarter was the first any non-Doncic or Irving Maverick had made all night."
"Four of the top six scorers in the series thus far are Celtics."
"The Mavericks averaged more than 16 corner 3-point attempts per game."
"That volume was so high that it ultimately doomed the Thunder."
"The Celtics have taken the opposite approach here. By taking away those two shots, the Celtics have all but disarmed every Maverick except for Doncic and Irving."
"They were all available to Dallas for relatively low prices because they aren't shot-creators."
"If Jones wants to fire from the top of the arc, or if Washington wants to post someone up? The Celtics can live with that."
"Perhaps a third true shot-creator could solve some of these issues for the Mavericks."
"The timing might have just worked out poorly for Dallas. It's a year too early for Hardy and a year too late for Hardaway."
Boston's Balanced Approach
The Celtics may not have a top-five player like Doncic, but they possess at least five—and perhaps six—players who could be credibly considered among the top 50 in the league. Players like Sam Hauser have made significant contributions, with Hauser having made more 3-pointers in the series (five) than the entire Mavericks reserve combined (four).
"They ask less of their supporting players, so they are able to thrive in roles that suit their strengths."
"The Celtics are here because they've successfully devised a roster and scheme in which nobody is asked to do more than they're capable of."
Dallas's Shortcomings
Conversely, the Mavericks are on the verge of losing the series because their supporting cast of specialists can be so easily neutralized. The need for a reliable third shot-creator for Dallas is evident, but the current roster does not seem up to the challenge. This underscores the classic case of a well-rounded team versus a team dependent on a few superstars, with the former proving more effective in this series.
In summary, Boston's depth and balanced approach have allowed them to flourish, while Dallas's heavy reliance on their superstars has left them vulnerable when those stars are neutralized. The Celtics' strategy and depth have highlighted their collective strength, presenting a formidable challenge for the Mavericks, who must reconsider their approach if they are to avoid elimination.