The Boston Celtics will aim to build on their impressive form when they welcome the Dallas Mavericks to TD Garden on Friday. While the Celtics (36-15) sit comfortably in second place in the Eastern Conference, trailing only the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Mavericks (26-25) have hit a rough patch, dropping to 11th place in the Western Conference standings.
Celtics Continue to Dominate Both Ends of the Court
Boston strengthened their position in the East with a hard-fought 112-105 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday. MVP candidate Jayson Tatum led the charge with 22 points, seven assists, and four rebounds, while Derrick White added 20 points. The duo of Jaylen Brown and Kristaps Porzingis combined for 35 points, helping the Celtics fend off a late surge from the Cavaliers, who outscored Boston 30-25 in the final quarter.
Despite Cleveland's stellar 24-4 home record, Boston's dominance on the road has been a standout feature this season, boasting a league-best 20-6 away record. Ranked in the top five for both offense and defense, the Celtics average 117.2 points per game while conceding just 108.4 PPG. However, they have struggled against the spread, posting a 20-30-1 ATS record.
With Porzingis enjoying a standout season, averaging 19.2 PPG and 7.2 RPG on 46.9% shooting, and Tatum contributing consistently, Boston looks primed for another strong performance.
Mavericks Reeling After Luka Doncic Trade
The Mavericks' form has been nothing short of disastrous since their controversial decision to trade franchise star Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis. The move, which shocked fans and analysts alike, has left Dallas struggling to find its rhythm.
The Mavs have dropped three consecutive games, including a 118-116 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday. Kyrie Irving delivered an impressive 34 points, nine rebounds, and four assists, while Naji Marshall and Max Christie combined for 34 points off the bench. Despite their efforts, Dallas fell short, continuing their slide down the standings.
Jason Kidd's side now ranks 11th in scoring, averaging 115.3 points per game, while conceding 113.4 PPG, which places them 16th in the league defensively. Injuries have further compounded their struggles, with key players like Dereck Lively, Dwight Powell, and Caleb Martin all doubtful for Friday's clash.
Team News and Lineups
Boston’s Kristaps Porzingis has been a standout performer this season, staying relatively healthy and proving to be a reliable force on both ends of the court. However, Jayson Tatum is listed as a minor doubt due to a right knee issue sustained in their win over the Bulls. JD Davison and Anton Watson remain sidelined for the foreseeable future.
For Dallas, Anthony Davis could make his debut if cleared fit after missing the last game with an abdominal strain. However, the Mavs are still dealing with multiple injuries, with Lively, Powell, and Martin unlikely to feature. PJ Washington might return following the birth of his third child, providing a much-needed boost for the struggling side.
Boston Celtics Projected Starting Five:Tatum, Brown, Porzingis, White, Holiday
Dallas Mavericks Projected Starting Five:Thompson, Edwards, Gafford, Irving, Exum
Celtics to Win by Double Digits
The Celtics are heating up at just the right time, with their win over the Cavaliers showcasing their resilience and depth. Meanwhile, the Mavericks are in freefall, hampered by injuries and the aftershock of trading Luka Doncic.
With their stellar form at both ends of the court and home advantage, Boston is well-positioned to secure another dominant victory. Expect the Celtics to win by 10+ points, further cementing their status as one of the top contenders in the East.
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