The anticipation for the 2024 NBA Finals between the Boston Celtics and the Dallas Mavericks has been building since the matchup was confirmed last week. While the true answers will unfold on the court in the coming weeks, here are ten key questions to consider as the series begins on Thursday with Game 1 (8:30 ET, ABC).
1. Do Playground-Style Rankings Mean Anything?
Studio shows and media outlets often fill time before the championship series with playground-style rankings of players. While entertaining, these rankings don’t offer much insight into how teams will compete. For instance, a ranking of the Celtics and Mavericks players might go as follows:
| Rank | Player | Team |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Luka Doncic | Mavericks |
| 2 | Jayson Tatum | Celtics |
| 3 | Jaylen Brown | Celtics |
| 4 | Kyrie Irving | Mavericks |
| 5 | Jrue Holiday | Celtics |
| 6 | Derrick White | Celtics |
| 7 | Dereck Lively II | Mavericks |
This list doesn’t reflect how these players will share responsibilities or handle pressure. Historically, such rankings have proven unreliable predictors of Finals outcomes, as seen in the 2011 Finals where Miami’s top talents couldn’t secure a win.
2. Do Tatum and Brown Get Along?
The chemistry between Boston’s stars, Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, is often questioned. Despite rumors, their on-court success speaks volumes, with five conference finals and two NBA Finals appearances in seven seasons. Their synergy has led Boston to a 76-20 record this season. Personal relationships aside, their professional collaboration remains highly effective.
3. What Does This Series Mean to the Coaches?
Boston’s Joe Mazzulla and Dallas’s Jason Kidd are making history as the first Black coaches to face off in the Finals since 1975. Mazzulla, thrust into the head coach role unexpectedly last season, and Kidd, on his third coaching stint, both have much to prove. Regardless of the outcome, their journeys to the Finals have validated their coaching careers.
4. Who Guards Luka Doncic?
Luka Doncic poses a significant challenge for Boston’s defense. Jrue Holiday and Derrick White will likely take turns guarding him, with Holiday’s strength providing an edge. However, the entire Celtics team will need to focus on limiting Doncic’s impact, including his connection with lob targets Dereck Lively and Daniel Gafford.
5. How Will Kyrie Irving’s Return to Boston Affect the Series?
Kyrie Irving’s contentious departure from Boston in 2019 still lingers in fans’ minds. While his return adds a subplot, it’s unlikely to influence the series outcome significantly. Irving, the most Finals-experienced player, will likely be highly motivated and focused, making the fans’ reactions a minor distraction.
6. Will Kristaps Porzingis Play for Boston?
Kristaps Porzingis is expected to return for Game 1 after being sidelined since April 29 with a calf strain. While he may have a minutes restriction, his presence could bolster Boston’s defense and spacing. The Celtics have thrived without him, but his return is eagerly anticipated for added depth.
7. Who Are the X-Factors?
For the Celtics, Derrick White could be a crucial player, seeking redemption from a disappointing 2022 Finals. P.J. Washington is key for the Mavericks, bringing physicality and consistent scoring in his first significant playoff run. Both players’ performances could sway the series.
8. How Did Dallas Nail the Doncic-Irving Pairing?
Teaming two ball-dominant guards like Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving seemed risky, but it has paid off. Irving’s improved focus and mutual respect with Doncic have created a formidable duo. Irving’s defensive effort and physical fitness have also enhanced their partnership.
9. Would Boston’s ‘Easy’ Road to the Finals Taint a Title?
Critics may note that Boston’s opponents were often missing key players. However, if the Celtics win, history will likely overlook these details. Championships are remembered for the victories, not the asterisks. If Boston loses, their season’s narrative will be defined by that outcome, not the circumstances of their earlier wins.
10. Is This Championship or Bust for Boston?
For Boston, this Finals feels like a “championship or bust” scenario. Despite their young core, fans and players alike may lose faith if they fall short again. After multiple deep playoff runs, only a title will satisfy their aspirations and validate their efforts.
As the 2024 NBA Finals unfold, these questions will be answered on the court, providing clarity and excitement for basketball fans worldwide.(FADA888)