The 2024 NBA Finals kicked off with a commanding Game 1 victory by the Boston Celtics over the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday.

The Celtics couldn’t have asked for a better start to the series, employing a 23-5 run in the last six minutes of the first quarter to establish a strong lead. Boston’s defense consistently troubled Dallas, holding the Western Conference champions to just 42 points in the first half, their second-lowest first-half total in the 2024 playoffs.

Although the Celtics’ 21-point halftime lead started to shrink in the third quarter, with Luka Doncic and his team reducing the gap to single digits, Boston’s control over Dallas’ supporting cast proved insurmountable. Despite Doncic’s 30 points and 10 rebounds, he managed only one assist, a postseason career low.

Jaylen Brown led Boston with 22 points, and Kristaps Porzingis made a notable comeback from a calf injury, contributing 20 points and three blocks.

The Mavericks will attempt to level the series in Game 2 on Sunday (8 p.m. ET, ABC). Meanwhile, let’s delve into the key observations from our NBA experts regarding Thursday night.

What Game 1 Trend Could Define the Series?

Tim Bontemps: Boston’s defensive prowess. Kyrie Irving shot 6-for-19 and 0-for-5 from three-point range. Doncic scored 30 points and grabbed 10 rebounds but recorded only one assist—the fewest in his postseason career—while the Mavericks had just nine assists overall. Boston’s defensive versatility allowed them to guard Dallas’ stars without needing to double-team, preventing role players like P.J. Washington from getting into a rhythm.

Marc Spears: The Celtics can win even if Tatum doesn’t excel. Despite Jayson Tatum’s off night—16 points on 6-for-16 shooting with six turnovers—the Celtics’ depth (six players scoring in double figures) ensured victory. What will the series look like when Tatum finds his form?

Kevin Pelton: Boston’s advantage in three-point attempts. Both teams favor the three-pointer, but Boston’s commitment is unparalleled. Their ability to switch defensively keeps them from collapsing into the paint, thus preventing open looks for the Mavericks. In Game 1, Boston doubled Dallas in three-point attempts in the first half. The Celtics’ ability to limit Dallas to just three corner three attempts was a crucial factor.

Porzingis’ Impactful Return

Pelton: Boston overcame their own injury challenges with Porzingis’ return. His size and shooting shifted the game in Boston’s favor, improving their rim defense and adding an offensive threat. His play was impressive, driving past defenders and blocking shots, showcasing his full capabilities after a long injury break.

Bontemps: The energy and excitement Porzingis brought was palpable, both on the court and among the fans. His presence was a significant upgrade from the backup center and provided the exact impact Boston needed.

Spears: Porzingis’ performance was surprising, given his pre-game preparation. He excelled in scoring, blocking, and rebounding, making history with his impactful return. His dominant performance was unexpected but pivotal for the Celtics.

Biggest Adjustment Dallas Needs in Game 2

Bontemps: Getting Irving more involved. If Irving struggles like he did in the Oklahoma City series, Boston will likely dominate. Dallas needs a performance similar to the Minnesota series, where both Irving and Doncic excelled.

Spears: Doncic needs a strong start and to involve his teammates early. His aggressive play against Minnesota was missing in Game 1. He needs to drive and dish more effectively to create opportunities for his teammates.

Pelton: Improving ball movement. Dallas had fewer assists than Doncic’s regular-season average. The Mavericks need to increase their assist opportunities, particularly by creating more off Doncic’s passes.

How Many Games Will This Series Last?

Bontemps: Six. Game 1 didn’t change my prediction. If Dallas wins Game 2, they gain home-court advantage, but Boston remains the better team overall.

Spears: Seven. Despite Game 1’s outcome, I still foresee a long series. Both Dallas stars need to step up for the Mavericks to extend the series.

Pelton: Five. I initially thought Boston would win in five but predicted seven due to uncertainty around Porzingis and Dallas’ strong playoff run. Given Boston’s performance and Porzingis’ return, they are now heavy favorites.