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Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE
The Dallas Mavericks have another chance to win in Game 5 against the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals. Despite now being down 3-1 in the series, the Mavericks have a lot they can build off of following their 122-84 victory led by 29 points from Luka Doncic.
Heading into Monday night's matchup at the TD Garden in Boston, the Mavericks have momentum they can build off of to survive another day. Many things have to go in favor of Doncic and company to pull off a victory back-to-back against this gut-wrenching Celtics roster.
When Luka Doncic is being assertive with the ball in his hands it is hard to slow him down, no matter who is guarding him. He provides a matchup nightmare when he reduces his playmaking prowess and is looking to score first primarily.
Whether creating separation for a pull-up jumper or creating contact at the rim to finish inside, the versatility that Doncic has in his arsenal is endless.
If Doncic can get rolling early it can create much easier opportunities for fellow guard Kyrie Irving who is currently averaging 21 points in the NBA Finals. Irving had a big game in Game 3, finishing with 35 points which included 4 made threes.
When the ball enters either of their hands when they go straight attack mode it is hard for even the strong defensive-minded players on the Celtics to stop them.
With Doncic and Irving being at the point of attack for Dallas it’llbe important that they continue to attack their defenders to create opportunities for their team overall.
Being back at home for Game 5, the Boston Celtics will be seeking to play at a high level to close out this series at home. Winning a league-leading 18th championship in front of the Boston faithful will be the dream that the Celtics have been waiting for since their last reign in 2008 against the Los Angeles Lakers.
The Mavericks should expect Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown to come out aggressive for Boston. Just like in Game 4, we could see the Celtics struggle to get a consistent rhythm flowing against a balanced Mavs roster.
Anything could happen in Game 5 on the road for the Dallas Mavericks, a lot of critics are expecting this series to be over but we’ve seen some wild moments happen in the Finals before. Doncic and Irving could be geared for a historical Game 5 performance that could get them one last dance back in Dallas.
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