Summary
P.J. Washington made two 3-pointers and scored eight points as the Mavericks went on a 22-2 run. However, Dallas needed more scoring beyond Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. The Celtics, throughout the series, have consistently showcased multiple leading scorers.
Dallas's Struggles with Boston's Strategy
Dallas has struggled significantly against Boston's strategy, which involves not doubling Doncic. The Celtics have implemented single coverage on both Doncic and Irving, effectively limiting the effectiveness of Dallas's role players. These role players usually thrive on the opportunities generated by their superstar ball-handlers, but this series has seen them falter.
Boston's approach to defense has involved applying intense pressure on Dallas's star players while allowing their role players to operate without double-teaming. This has exposed the weaknesses in Dallas's supporting cast, which has not been able to capitalize on the openings created by Doncic and Irving.
Boston’s Depth vs. Dallas’s Reliance on Stars
One of the critical differences in this series has been the depth of Boston's bench compared to Dallas's reliance on their star players. Boston's bench players have been more successful than those of Dallas, and this depth has proven to be a significant advantage. The Celtics have devised a balanced team approach which contrasts sharply with Dallas's reliance on their star players.
While Boston's role players are not asked to do too much and thus can stay within their strengths, Dallas’s supporting cast struggles when their superstars are neutralized. Tim Hardaway Jr.'s decline and Jaden Hardy's inexperience have further hurt Dallas's offensive rhythm. The team’s system does not seem to support a consistent scoring rhythm for the role players.
Quotes Illustrating the Series Dynamics
"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," highlights the extent of Dallas's dependence on its star duo. Furthermore, "Four of the top six scorers in the series thus far are Celtics," exemplifies Boston's balanced attack and offensive depth.
The Mavericks averaged more than 16 corner 3-point attempts per game, a volume that was so high that it ultimately doomed them. In contrast, the Celtics have taken an opposite approach by taking away those shots, effectively disarming every Maverick except for Doncic and Irving. Boston's strategy of neutralizing Dallas's role players has paid dividends throughout the series.
The Mavericks’ roster construction also contributes to their struggles. Players like Doncic and Irving are surrounded by specialists rather than shot-creators. "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." Thus, a third true shot-creator might solve some of these issues for the Mavericks as they desperately seek to diversify their offensive threats. "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," sums up the current dilemma faced by the Mavericks.
Boston's Balanced Approach
The Celtics may not have a top-five player like Doncic, but they have at least five—and perhaps six—players who could credibly be 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 every Mavericks reserve combined (four).
"They ask less of their supporting players, so they are able to thrive in roles that suit their strengths," is a fitting description of Boston's balanced and well-rounded approach. "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 neutralized so easily. The need for a reliable third shot-creator for Dallas is evident, but the current roster does not seem up to the challenge.
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. It is a classic case of a well-rounded team versus a team dependent on a few superstars, with the former proving more effective in this series.