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The Mavericks came away with the third-largest victory in a game in NBA Finals history in Game 4 after defeating Boston 122-84 to cut the Celtics’ series lead to 3-1, Eddie Sefko of Mavs.com writes. “We had to play our A game,” coach Jason Kidd said. “It was this or we go on vacation. I thought the group did a great job of not pressing, letting the game happen. We made a stand.
We were desperate. We got to continue to keep playing that way. They’re trying to find a way to close the door. The hardest thing in this league is to close the door when you have a group that has nothing to lose. Tonight you saw that. They let go of the rope, you know, pretty early.”
With 25 points in the first half, Luka Doncic gave the Mavericks a commanding lead right away. Sefko also notes that the Mavericks were just enjoying themselves on the field, something they had stated they wanted to regain following their 3-0 series opening loss. Doncic stated, “It doesn’t change anything.” “First to four it is. And we’re going to hold onto our faith through. We will thus simply continue on. I have a lot of faith in this group.
Tim Cato of The Athletic writes that the Mavericks made some crucial adjustments that finally forced their opponent to think. Under Kidd, Dallas has a history of coming back from a deficit in the playoffs, and Game 4 was no different.
Dereck Lively II looked comfortable and Dante Exum got more runtime, scoring 10 points off the bench and proving he can contribute. “We waited until Game 4 to ultimately play our best game,” Kyrie Irving said. “But we have another opportunity to extend the season. That’s all we can ask for. We handled our business tonight. But the job is still an uphill battle, and we understand that.“
Doncic showed the basketball world that he’s willing and ready to take a step with his game, Sam Amick of The Athletic writes. Doncic apologized for his Game 3 actions involving referees and then was more composed in Game 4. Amick writes that Doncic’s three steals also showcase a willingness to improve as a two-way player. Kidd defended Doncic prior to Game 4, Joe Vardon of The Athletic observes.
“For whatever reason, there have been some personal attacks on him, but he will learn from them and he will be better when he comes back from it,” Kidd said ahead of Friday’s game. Kidd said Doncic deserves a break but also pointed out that some of the league’s greatest have taken this sort of criticism before finding long-term success.
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