NBA Finals: Key Factors as Celtics Aim to Close Out Mavericks
Jaylen Brown has been on fire, scoring 21 or more points and shooting over 53% in each of the first three games of the Finals.
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DALLAS — Any former NBA champion will tell you that closing out a team on its home court is a daunting task. The Boston Celtics are no exception, despite their dominant 2024 postseason performance where they’ve only suffered two losses. Their success has been driven by depth, solid play on both ends of the court, and some fortunate injuries to their opponents.
The Celtics face a significant challenge as they attempt to complete a sweep against the Dallas Mavericks in Game 4 of the NBA Finals on Friday (8:30 ET, ABC). Here’s a look at what could potentially work against them:
1. The Hunger Game for the Celtics
The natural human tendency to ease up when victory seems imminent is a concern for Boston. This was evident when they nearly blew a 21-point fourth-quarter lead on Wednesday. The Celtics need to resist the urge to relax if they want to avoid giving the Mavericks any hope and sending the series back to Boston.
The Mavericks, with their backs against the wall, will be desperate to win the energy plays — rebounding, defense, and efficient shots. Players like Dereck Lively II and Daniel Gafford, who have been neutralized so far, will need to step up. Lively emphasized the need for maximum effort, saying, “Just because we’re down 3-0, it’s not finished. It’s only going to come down to us putting all we can on the floor, trying to come out and win little battles.”
If Boston can match Dallas’s intensity, their superior talent should prevail. But complacency could be their downfall. “We’re just locked in,” said Celtics guard Derrick White. “We know what’s at stake. We understand that close-out games are the toughest, and we just come with an extra edge.”
2. Jaylen Brown Securing Another Bag
Despite not making any All-NBA teams or the 2024 Olympic Team, Jaylen Brown has had an outstanding year. He signed the richest contract in NBA history, was named the most outstanding player of the Eastern Conference Finals, and is a strong contender for the Finals MVP.
Brown has been Boston’s most consistent and reliable player in the series, showcasing his all-around skills and causing significant problems for the Mavericks. He is motivated by the prospect of winning both the Larry O’Brien Trophy and the Bill Russell Finals MVP Award. Brown’s stellar performance has solidified his place among the league’s top players, long overshadowed by Jayson Tatum but now making his own mark.
3. Kyrie Irving’s Leadership
Kyrie Irving’s experience and leadership could be crucial for the Mavericks. He has previously helped a team rally from a 3-1 deficit to win a championship and hit one of the biggest shots in NBA Finals history. This season, he has shown maturity and wisdom, becoming a calmer presence in the Mavericks’ star backcourt.
Irving has offered to provide guidance to Luka Doncic, who has struggled with injuries and officiating frustrations. “There are a lot of first-timers on this stage,” Irving said. “But my message to him is he’s not alone in this. He’s played as best as he can despite the circumstances, just injuries and stuff. He’s been giving it his all. It’s not all on him.”
4. Potential X-Factors
Derrick White has been a key player for the Celtics, contributing on both ends of the court and stepping up in crucial moments. His confidence and willingness to take big shots have been instrumental, particularly his late-game heroics in Game 3.
Other potential game-changers include Derrick Jones Jr., who has had a quiet series but is known for his corner 3-pointers, dunks, and defense. With free agency approaching, Jones has every incentive to make a significant impact. Dereck Lively II, who had a double-double in Game 3, could also play a crucial role, especially if Kristaps Porzingis is sidelined. His energy and ability to draw fouls on Al Horford could be pivotal.
Sam Hauser’s shooting ability could stretch the floor and create more opportunities for Tatum and Brown. After a poor Game 2, Hauser bounced back with nine points in Game 3, demonstrating his value in Boston’s three-point-heavy offense.
Conclusion
As the Celtics attempt to secure their 18th championship, they must remain vigilant and resist complacency. The Mavericks, led by a vengeful Luka Doncic and a determined Kyrie Irving, will fight to extend the series. Key performances from players like Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, and potential X-factors will be crucial in determining the outcome of Game 4.
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