The Boston Celtics executed a unique game plan to contain Luka Doncic and the Dallas Mavericks in Game 1 of the NBA Finals, resulting in a historic 107-89 victory ¹. Here are some key points from the article:
– The Celtics focused on stopping everyone except Doncic, who still scored 30 points but had a game-low one assist.
– Boston’s defensive strategy involved minimal double-teaming and instead relied on individual defenders like Derrick White, Jrue Holiday, and Jaylen Brown to contain Doncic.
– The Mavericks had just nine assists, making them only the third team since 1966 to record fewer than ten assists in an NBA Finals game.
– Doncic’s one assist was his lowest in a game since May 7, 2021, and the Celtics’ defense played a significant role in limiting his playmaking abilities.
– The Celtics’ approach demonstrates their trust in their individual defenders and their ability to guard without relying on double teams.
