Mazzulla challenged the idea that Tatum had a slow start, highlighting how he scored only two points in the first quarter but ultimately contributed 32 in the Celtics’ 10th consecutive victory.
The Mavericks initially limited Jayson Tatum’s shot attempts and points in the first half, focusing on Kristaps Porzingis and successfully navigating Boston’s screens.
Despite Tatum’s slow start, the Celtics maintained a lead with effective three-point shooting. When Dallas narrowed the gap in the third quarter, Tatum became a focal point, and Coach Joe Mazzulla emphasized the team’s overall performance, attributing their good start to collective effort. The Celtics ultimately secured a 138-110 victory, extending their winning streak to 10 games.
Porzingis played a significant role early in the game, connecting on pick-and-pop threes, while Kyrie Irving faced persistent boos from the crowd. Tatum and Brown attempted eight shots in the first quarter, contributing to Boston’s 52% shooting. Despite a relentless scoring effort from Luka Doncic, the Celtics held a six-point lead by the end of the quarter.
As the game progressed, Tatum showcased his scoring prowess, finishing with 32 points, while Doncic closed with 29 points. Boston’s defense limited the Mavericks’ scoring in the second and third quarters, allowing them to maintain narrow advantages. A decisive 15-5 run, featuring Al Horford and Xavier Tillman’s contributions, expanded the Celtics’ lead to 20 points.
Tillman, making a surprising debut, played a key role in the final quarter. He contributed to a significant run, with Jaylen Brown’s spectacular 360 layup adding to the excitement. Tatum’s strategic shot selection and the team’s defensive efforts played a crucial role in securing the 10th consecutive victory for the Celtics.