The 2024 NBA Finals commenced with a Game 1 victory for the Boston Celtics over the Dallas Mavericks, giving them a 1-0 series lead. Despite the Oklahoma City Thunder’s elimination in the second round against the Mavericks, there is representation from the Thunder on both teams.
Former Thunder player Al Horford made an impact for the Celtics in Game 1, starting the game and contributing 10 points, seven rebounds, three assists, and two blocks in 30 minutes. He shot 2-of-5 from 3-point range and was a plus-seven on the court. Kristaps Porzingis came off the bench for the Mavericks in his much-anticipated return to play against his former teammate.
Svi Mykhailiuk, another former Thunder player, saw some playing time in garbage time, scoring two points in his three minutes on the court. The Celtics will aim to extend their series lead when they face the Mavericks in Game 2 on Sunday, June 9. The stage is set for an exciting matchup between these two competitive teams in the 2024 NBA Finals.