Celtics Dominate Mavericks in NBA Finals Opener

Tatum and Brown Lead Boston to 107-89 Victory

Porzingis Returns from Injury, but Celtics Prove Too Much

BOSTON, Mass. - The Boston Celtics sent a resounding message to the Dallas Mavericks in Game 1 of the NBA Finals, blowing out the visitors 107-89 on Thursday night.

Led by Jayson Tatum's 32 points and five three-pointers, the Celtics controlled the game from start to finish. Jaylen Brown also had a strong performance with 29 points, while Kristaps Porzingis' return from injury proved futile for the Mavericks.

Boston's defense was suffocating, holding Dallas to just 39% shooting from the field and forcing 15 turnovers. The Celtics also dominated the boards, outrebounding the Mavericks 52-36.

The win gives the Celtics a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series. Game 2 will be played in Boston on Sunday night.