2024 NBA Finals: Celtics Host Mavericks in Game 1

Celtics Look for Early Advantage as NBA Finals Get Underway

The Boston Celtics and Dallas Mavericks will tip off the 2024 NBA Finals on Wednesday night in Boston. The Celtics, who finished the regular season with the league's best record, will be looking to take an early 1-0 lead in the series. The Mavericks, meanwhile, will be hoping to steal home-court advantage with a win in Game 1.

Key Matchups to Watch

There are several key matchups to watch in Game 1 of the NBA Finals. One of the most intriguing will be the battle between Celtics star Jayson Tatum and Mavericks star Luka Dončić. Tatum is one of the most dynamic scorers in the league, while Dončić is a triple-double machine. Whoever can get the better of their matchup will give their team a major advantage.

Another key matchup to watch will be the battle in the paint between Celtics center Joel Embiid and Mavericks center Kristaps Porzingis. Embiid is one of the best centers in the league, while Porzingis is a rising star. Whoever can control the paint will have a big impact on the outcome of the game.

Prediction

The Celtics are the favorites to win the NBA Finals, but the Mavericks are a dangerous team. If they can get off to a good start in Boston, they have a chance to win the series. However, the Celtics are simply too talented and experienced to lose at home in Game 1. Prediction: Celtics win 115-105