The 2024 NBA Finals are now over, and the Boston Celtics are the new champions. They enjoyed a 4-1 series victory over the Dallas Mavericks and wrapped things up quickly. Boston was punch-perfect as they eased to this summer’s title. It’s always dangerous to write off the Mavericks, and they won game four to narrow the scores, but they were blown away in the fifth leg of a captivating series.
The opening game was billed as a 50/50 affair before tip-off, but Boston proved too good when laying down a marker for the rest of the series. They moved into a 1-0 lead thanks to an impressive 107 – 89 victory. It was a show of strength from the Celtics, who led by more than 20 points at half-time before continuing to crush the opposition.
Dallas went into Game 2 looking to level the score but was again beaten by the better team, which created chances and took the points. A 105-98 win last Monday gave Boston a two-game cushion, and the updated NBA playoffs odds made them the hot favorite. A solid lead grew to 3-0 on Thursday in another high-scoring affair. Game three produced a 106-99 win for Boston as they sped closer to the horizon, grabbing a record 18th NBA crown.
Tatum and Brown combine
Boston’s success has been a story of teamwork, determination, and experience so far. But in leg three, we saw two players stand head and shoulders above the competition. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown combined to crush Dallas, scoring a combined 61 points of the 106 managed by their team. The pair were in fine form and sparkled, with Tatum netting 31 points and Brown responsible for 30.
Celtics booked another remarkable title that looked impossible just a few months ago. Skill and flair moved them into a 3-0 lead, but it was experience and cool heads that nudged them to the trophy, something this Boston team has in abundance. They silenced their critics when fighting back from that surprise loss in game four to cross the finish line in style finally.
The NBA history books show Boston now boasts 18 championship wins between 1957 and 2024. As we await the next season, let’s reflect on some memorable title-winning games from Celtic’s past that will help inspire confidence approaching another campaign.
Boston vs. Los Angeles – Game 6, 2008 NBA Finals
One of the most memorable and decisive victories in NBA Finals history occurred on June 17, 2008. The Celtics faced their historic rivals, the Los Angeles Lakers, in Game 6 of the Finals. The Celtics entered the game with a 3-2 series lead and had the chance to clinch their 17th championship on the home court.
From the outset, the Celtics demonstrated their dominance. They outscored the Lakers 34-15 in the first quarter and never looked back. Ray Allen, Paul Pierce, and Kevin Garnett each played pivotal roles, with Allen hitting seven three-pointers, tying an NBA Finals record.
The 39-point margin of victory was the largest ever in a Finals-clinching game. The Celtics’ defense was also spectacular, stifling the Lakers’ offense and forcing numerous turnovers. This game epitomized the Celtics’ resilience and team-oriented play.
Boston vs. St. Louis – Game 2, 1957 NBA Finals
The 1957 NBA Finals between the Boston Celtics and the St. Louis Hawks is often remembered for its intense competition and dramatic moments. Game 2, played on April 7, 1957, was a high-scoring and thrilling double-overtime contest that the Celtics won 125-123.
This victory was crucial in setting the tone for the series, which the Celtics eventually won in seven games to secure their first NBA Championship.
Tommy Heinsohn was the Celtics’ hero, scoring 37 points and grabbing 23 rebounds. Bill Russell, in his rookie season, also made a significant impact with his defensive presence and rebounding. The game was a showcase of endurance and determination, with both teams exchanging leads and refusing to back down. This double-overtime win exemplified the Celtics’ early dominance and their ability to perform under pressure.
Boston vs. Houston – Game 5, 1986 NBA Finals
The 1986 Boston Celtics are often considered one of the greatest teams in NBA history. In Game 5 of the NBA Finals on June 8, 1986, the Celtics faced the Houston Rockets with the series tied at 2-2. Playing at home, the Celtics delivered a commanding performance, defeating the Rockets 114-97 to take a crucial series lead.
Larry Bird was at his best, recording a triple-double with 29 points, 11 rebounds, and 12 assists. His leadership and versatility were on full display, inspiring the Celtics to dominate the game. The Celtics’ balanced attack, with significant contributions from Kevin McHale and Robert Parish, overwhelmed the Rockets’ defense. This game showcased the Celtics’ offensive efficiency and teamwork, paving the way for their 16th NBA Championship.
Boston vs. Los Angeles – Game 5, 1962 NBA Finals
In the 1962 NBA Finals, the Boston Celtics faced off against the Los Angeles Lakers in a tightly contested series. Game 5, played on April 11, 1962, was a pivotal matchup, with the series tied 2-2. The Celtics needed a strong performance to regain control of the series, and they delivered with a 119-105 victory.
Bill Russell was the standout performer, dominating the game with his rebounding and shot-blocking. He finished with an impressive stat line, including 30 points and 40 rebounds, showcasing his impact on both ends of the floor. Sam Jones also contributed significantly, scoring 35 points. The Celtics’ ability to execute their game plan and outplay the Lakers in this crucial game underscored their championship pedigree.
It’s never too early
How do you expect the champions to perform next season? Will Boston win back-to-back titles? It’s never too early to make predictions, with the leading sportsbooks already offering odds and accepting bets on the 2025 NBA Finals champion.
Boston is one of the early favorites, but with another competitive campaign approaching, there’s plenty of value around. Study the form, track the summer trades, and call the winner using your laptop or smartphone then cheer your pick to victory.
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