Boston Celtics extend win streak against Dallas Mavericks

(Featured image: Alamy Images)

Written by: Akram Miah

The Boston Celtics extended their win streak to ten games after a dominating 138-110 victory over the Dallas Mavericks at TD Garden.

Despite Luka Dončić's remarkable triple-double of 37 points, 12 rebounds, and 11 assists, the Celtics proved too strong, with seven players reaching double digits in scoring. Jayson Tatum led the charge for the home team with 32 points, supported by Jaylen Brown and Kristaps Porziņģis, who combined for 49 points. While Kyrie Irving contributed 19 points for the Mavericks, his struggles from the 3-point line hindered their efforts, shooting just 1-7.

The Celtics displayed sharp shooting, finishing with a 48.8 percent success rate from beyond the arc, compared to the Mavericks' 26.5 percent.

Mavericks momentum quelled in the third quarter

The key turning point occurred in the third quarter. The Mavericks had managed to trim the Celtics' lead to just two points, making the score 81-79 midway through the quarter. This moment represented a critical juncture where the game could have swung in favour of either team.

However, the Celtics responded with a dominant stretch of their own, effectively quashing the Mavericks' momentum. By the middle of the fourth quarter, the Celtics had extended their lead to 20 points, decisively moving the game out of reach for the Mavericks. This response not only showcased remarkable resilience but also their ability to execute under pressure, ultimately securing their victory and becoming the first team this season to win ten straight.

Reflecting on the game in the postgame press conference, Tatum emphasised the Celtics' strength as a team, highlighting their ability to adapt and win consistently.

"In simple terms, we have a really good team," Tatum stated. "Every night presents a different challenge, but as long as we maintain our focus and continue to build good habits, success will follow."

Celtics secure place in the post-season 

The Celtics' victory confirmed their place in the post-season and they remain first in the East with an impressive 47-12 record.

The loss was the third in four games for the Mavericks, moving their record to 34-26 as they drop to ninth in the Western Conference following the Sacramento Kings victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves.  

Both teams play next on Sunday. The Mavericks travel to Philadelphia to face the 76ers, while the Celtics host their rivals, the Golden State Warriors.

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