Celtics Rout Mavericks 107-89 in Game 1 of NBA Finals Behind Brown, Returning Porzingis

Celtics Seize Control Early, Dominate Throughout

The Boston Celtics wasted no time in establishing their dominance in Game 1 of the NBA Finals, crushing the Dallas Mavericks 107-89 on Tuesday night at the TD Garden. With star forward Jayson Tatum leading the charge with 39 points, 11 rebounds, and 5 assists, and Jaylen Brown adding 34 points and 4 assists, the Celtics overwhelmed the Mavericks from start to finish.

Porzingis Returns with a Bang

The return of Kristaps Porzingis, who had missed the past three games with a knee injury, proved to be a major boost for the Celtics. The Latvian big man finished with 16 points, 10 rebounds, and 2 blocks, providing a much-needed presence in the frontcourt. His return allowed the Celtics to control the paint, outscoring the Mavericks 50-34 in that area.

The Celtics' defense also played a key role in the victory, holding the Mavericks to just 32.4% shooting from the field and forcing 10 turnovers. Dallas' star guard Luka Doncic, who had averaged 31.3 points in the playoffs, was limited to just 20 points on 8-of-21 shooting.

With the victory, the Celtics take a commanding 1-0 lead in the series and will look to extend their advantage in Game 2 on Thursday night at the TD Garden. The Mavericks, meanwhile, will need to regroup and find a way to neutralize the Celtics' balanced attack and stout defense if they want to keep their title hopes alive.