Boston Celtics Take 2-0 Lead in NBA Finals

Celtics Win Game 3, 106-98

Three Things to Watch for in Game 4

The Boston Celtics have taken a commanding 3-0 lead in the 2024 NBA Finals after defeating the Dallas Mavericks 106-98 in Game 3 on Wednesday night. Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with 28 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists, while Jaylen Brown added 22 points and 6 rebounds. Luka Doncic led the Mavericks with 26 points and 8 rebounds, but he shot just 9-of-25 from the field.

The Celtics got off to a hot start in Game 3, taking a 12-point lead in the first quarter. The Mavericks fought back to tie the game in the second quarter, but the Celtics took a 54-48 lead into halftime. The Celtics extended their lead to 10 points in the third quarter, and they held on to win by 8 points in the fourth quarter.

The Celtics are now one win away from their 18th NBA championship. The Mavericks will need to win Game 4 on Friday night to avoid a sweep. Here are three things to watch for in Game 4:

1. The Celtics' defense. The Celtics have been playing some of the best defense in the NBA during the playoffs. They have held the Mavericks to under 100 points in each of the first three games of the series. The Celtics will need to continue to play tough defense in Game 4 to close out the series.
2. Luka Doncic's performance. Doncic has been the Mavericks' best player throughout the playoffs, but he has struggled in the Finals. He is averaging just 22.3 points per game on 37.3% shooting from the field. The Mavericks will need Doncic to play better in Game 4 if they want to avoid a sweep.
3. The home court advantage. The Celtics will be playing Game 4 at home, where they have a 10-2 record in the playoffs. The Mavericks will need to play their best game of the series in Game 4 to overcome the Celtics' home court advantage.