Celtics Dominate Mavericks in Game 1, Take 1-0 Series Lead

Porzingis Returns with 20 Points, But Celtics Prove Too Strong

The Boston Celtics took a commanding 1-0 lead in their first-round playoff series against the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday night, cruising to a 107-89 victory at TD Garden. Kristaps Porzingis made a valiant return from injury, dropping 20 points, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Celtics' balanced attack.

Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with 24 points, while Jaylen Brown added 23 and Marcus Smart chipped in 18. Porzingis led the way for the Mavericks, followed by Luka Doncic with 18 and Spencer Dinwiddie with 15.

The Celtics raced out to an early lead and never looked back, shooting a blistering 52% from the field compared to the Mavericks' 40%. Dallas kept the game close in the second half, but Boston's defense proved too strong in the end.

The Mavericks will now head back to Dallas for Game 2 on Friday night, where they will look to even the series. The Celtics, on the other hand, will be looking to take a 2-0 lead and put the Mavericks on the ropes.