Boston Celtics Dominate Dallas Mavericks in NBA Finals Opener

Porziņģis Returns with Impressive Performance

Celtics Ground Mavs' Bigs, Limit Luka-Kyrie Duo

In a thrilling start to the NBA Finals, the Boston Celtics emerged victorious over the Dallas Mavericks, securing a commanding 107-89 victory. The Celtics' depth and defense proved too much for the Mavericks, who struggled to contain Boston's balanced attack.

Making a triumphant return from a calf injury, Kristaps Porziņģis played a pivotal role for the Celtics. The Latvian forward exploded for 20 points, including an impressive 18 points in the first quarter. Porziņģis' return provided a much-needed boost to Boston's offense, which has struggled at times during the playoffs.

The Celtics also showcased their defensive prowess, limiting the production of the Mavericks' star duo, Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving. Dončić, who has been unstoppable at times this postseason, was held to just 20 points on 7-of-19 shooting. Irving fared slightly better with 24 points, but his efficiency was also affected by Boston's lockdown defense.

With the Celtics in control of Game 1, the series now shifts to Dallas for Game 2 on Sunday. The Mavericks will need to regroup and find a way to adjust to Boston's suffocating defense if they want to even the series.