Boston Celtics vs. Dallas Mavericks Preview: Celtics Aim for Sweep and Title, Luka and Irving Face Crucial Game

On June 15, the NBA Finals Game 4 of the 2023-2024 season will tip off. The Celtics, up 3-0, are on the brink of securing the championship, while the Mavericks, down 0-3, seek a win to salvage some pride.

The Celtics have won all three previous games, currently enjoying a 7-game winning streak away from home, with a 3-0 series lead. In these contests, Boston has shown great versatility in securing victories. In Game 1, they capitalized on Porzingis’ match-up advantage and closed out the game with Jaylen Brown’s excellent performance. In Game 2, Holiday emerged as the hero, and in Game 3, Tatum exploded alongside Brown, scoring a combined 61 points. Holiday and White also stepped up in crucial moments to secure the win.

For the Mavericks, Luka Doncic has been consistent offensively but has faced intense defensive pressure, leading to his ejection in Game 3. Kyrie Irving struggled in the first two games at TD Garden before showing improvement in Game 3, though he faltered in key moments when Doncic was out. Role players like Washington, Kleber, and Hardaway Jr. haven’t replicated their Western Conference Finals form, leaving Dallas relying too much on individual efforts.

In Game 4, the Mavericks need Doncic and Irving to maintain their offensive output from Game 3. Additionally, both stars must elevate their defensive efforts. The supporting cast must provide more assistance, taking more assertive shots. Defensively, Dallas should replicate the pressure applied in the first half of Game 3 to force tough shots from the Celtics. Boston, with a 3-0 lead, doesn’t need to alter its approach, just adapt to whatever Dallas throws at them.

Porzingis is listed as questionable for Game 4, but his desire to play is high. Even without him, the Celtics hold the advantage. Another focal point is the potential FMVP, with Brown and Tatum in the running if Boston clinches the title. If Brown delivers another standout performance, he could sway the FMVP decision in his favor.

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