Celtics Take 3-0 Lead in NBA Finals

Game Three Highlights

In an exciting game three of the NBA Finals, the Boston Celtics defeated the Dallas Mavericks 116-98 to take a commanding 3-0 lead in the series. Luka Dončić, the Mavericks' star player, fouled out of the game in the fourth quarter, and the Celtics capitalized on his absence to pull away for the victory. Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with 29 points, while Jaylen Brown added 23 points. Dorian Finney-Smith led the Mavericks with 24 points.

Celtics Defense Shines

The Celtics' defense was stifling in game three, holding the Mavericks to just 37.5% shooting from the field. They also forced 15 turnovers, which led to several easy baskets for the Celtics. The Mavericks were never able to get into a rhythm offensively, and they struggled to keep pace with the Celtics' high-powered attack.

Dončić's Foul Trouble

Dončić was a major factor in the first two games of the series, but he struggled in game three. He picked up his fourth foul with just over six minutes remaining in the third quarter, and he was forced to sit out much of the fourth quarter. The Mavericks were unable to compensate for his absence, and the Celtics took advantage to build a big lead.

Celtics Close In on Championship

With the 3-0 lead, the Celtics are now just two wins away from winning their 18th NBA championship. They will have a chance to close out the series in game four on Friday night in Dallas. The Mavericks will need to find a way to slow down the Celtics' offense and get more production from their supporting cast if they want to extend the series.