2024 NBA Finals: Dallas Mavericks vs. Boston Celtics

Key Storylines Heading into Game 1

Can Luka Dončić Lead the Mavericks to a Title?

Luka Dončić has been on a tear in the playoffs, averaging 33.4 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 8.9 assists per game. He's single-handedly carried the Mavericks through some tough matchups, and he'll need to continue to play at a high level if they want to have a chance of beating the Celtics.

Boston's Depth Will Be a Key Factor

The Celtics have one of the deepest rosters in the NBA, with Jason Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Marcus Smart, and Al Horford all averaging double figures in the playoffs. They also have a number of other players who can contribute off the bench, which makes them a tough matchup for any team.

Home-Court Advantage Could Be Key

The Celtics will have home-court advantage in the Finals, which could be a significant advantage. They've been dominant at home this season, going 26-11. The Mavericks, on the other hand, have been just 18-19 on the road.

X-Factors to Watch

There are a number of X-factors that could play a role in the Finals. For the Mavericks, Christian Wood will need to step up and provide some scoring help for Dončić. For the Celtics, Robert Williams III will need to stay healthy and continue to play at a high level on defense.

Overall Preview

The 2024 NBA Finals is shaping up to be a classic matchup. The Mavericks are a young, hungry team with a lot of potential. The Celtics are a veteran team with a lot of experience. It's going to be a battle of styles, and it's sure to be a lot of fun to watch.