celtics head coach joe mazzulla recently spoke about the challenges his team will face in the nba finals against the dallas mavericks, specifically addressing the formidable duo of kyrie irving and luka doncic.
“So the whole thing is that’s what people like to focus on. They don’t look at the game as its connected game. If those guys play well, then they beat you. They don’t look at your offense, they don’t look at your turnovers, they don’t look at your transition, they don’t look at your second chance points, they don’t look at your execution on the offensive end.”
“This series is going to be about stopping those two guys. There is no stopping them. There’s defending them at a high level and there’s playing a complete game because every part of the game is connected. And so they’ve played nine close games, we’ve played four. There’s going to be close games.”
“The first three and a half quarters are just as important as the last two minutes of the game. And if you look at the Minnesota- Dallas series, it was 4-1, but Minnesota was leading in two of those, or maybe even three of those games in the fourth quarter. And the things that they gave up are the things that you can’t control over a long period of time.”
“So we’re not here to stop those guys. We’re here to play a complete game of basketball and have an understanding how each possession has an effect on everything else.” (4:38)
“They’re going to score. It’s what they do best. If we don’t take care of the things that are within our control then that doesn’t put us in the best possible position to win.”
Mazzulla emphasized that the focus should not solely be on stopping Irving and Doncic. He pointed out that the game is interconnected and involves many factors beyond just individual performances. According to Mazzulla, if Irving and Doncic play well, it doesn’t automatically mean they will beat you. The Celtics must also consider their offensive execution, turnovers, transition defense, second-chance points, and overall game strategy.
Mazzulla highlighted that the series will not be about stopping the Mavericks’ star duo, as they are nearly unstoppable when in form. Instead, the Celtics need to defend them at a high level while playing a complete game of basketball. This involves paying attention to all aspects of the game, such as transition defense, offensive rebounding, rim decisions, and shooting efficiency.
Mazzulla pointed out that the Mavericks have played nine close games in the playoffs, while the Celtics have played four. He stressed that the first three and a half quarters are just as crucial as the last two minutes of the game.
Using the example of the Minnesota-Dallas series, where Minnesota led in several games but ultimately lost, Mazzulla emphasized the importance of maintaining control over a long period and focusing on what can be controlled.
Luka Doncic has been exceptional in the playoffs, averaging 28.8 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 8.8 assists while shooting 43.8% from the field and 34.3% from three-point range. Kyrie Irving has also been on fire, averaging 22.8 points, 5.2 assists, and 3.9 rebounds with an impressive 48.5% shooting from the field and 42.1% from three-point range. Their performances have propelled the Mavericks to the NBA Finals.
The Celtics enter the Finals as favorites, but for the first time in these playoffs, the opposing team arguably has the best player in the series, or perhaps even the two best players.
Joe Mazzulla’s approach underscores the importance of playing a well-rounded game and focusing on the collective effort rather than just trying to contain individual stars. This strategy will be crucial for the Celtics as they aim to secure the championship.
The Boston Celtics have been dominant throughout the playoffs, boasting the second-best offensive rating, third-best defensive rating, and the best net rating by a significant margin. Their path to the NBA Finals has been relatively smooth, facing limited resistance from their opponents.
They dispatched the Miami Heat in five games, who were missing key players Terry Rozier and Jimmy Butler. The Celtics then overcame the Cleveland Cavaliers in five games, who were without Jarrett Allen and Donovan Mitchell. Finally, they swept the Indiana Pacers without Tyrese Haliburton in four games. Many of these games were not close, showcasing the Celtics’ strength and efficiency.
However, the Dallas Mavericks present a different and more formidable challenge. The Mavericks have the potential to put the Celtics in unfamiliar and uncomfortable positions. Unlike their previous opponents, the Mavericks are led by two of the most elite shot creators in the league: Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. These players are capable of creating their own shots and breaking down even the most robust defenses.
Doncic and Irving’s offensive prowess will test the Celtics’ defense like no other team has in these playoffs. The Mavericks’ ability to space the floor and attack from multiple angles will force the Celtics to make constant adjustments. Additionally, the Mavericks’ relentless offensive pressure and dynamic playmaking will keep the Celtics’ defense on its heels.
Moreover, the Mavericks’ defensive strategies are likely to disrupt the Celtics’ offensive rhythm. With a focus on challenging every shot and closing down passing lanes, Dallas can make it difficult for Boston to execute their game plan effectively. The Mavericks’ versatility and depth will also force the Celtics to adapt and find new ways to score.
While the Celtics have proven their dominance thus far, the Mavericks’ unique combination of elite shot creators and strategic defense will present a significant challenge. Boston will need to be at their best, both offensively and defensively, to overcome the test posed by Dallas and secure the championship