Celtics Seek Victory in Game 4 to Secure Playoff Berth

Game 4 Preview: Celtics Aim to Clinch Playoff Spot

The Boston Celtics seek a commanding 3-1 lead in their first-round playoff series against the Dallas Mavericks on Friday night. The Celtics have dominated the first three games, holding the Mavericks to an average of 92.7 points per game while scoring 116.7 points.

Takeaways from the Celtics' Game 4 Victory

Despite a slow start, the Celtics pulled away in the second half to secure a 102-82 victory in Game 4. Here are five key takeaways from the game:

• Celtics Dominate Inside: Boston shot 7-for-21 in the paint, including a dominant 1-for-12 from floater range.
• Tatum and Brown Lead the Way: Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown combined for 45 points, leading the Celtics' scoring.
• Mavericks Struggle to Keep Pace: The Mavericks shot just 38.7% from the field and were outrebounded by the Celtics 51-34.
• Doncic and Irving Struggle: Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, the Mavericks' top scorers, were held to a combined 34 points on 13-of-35 shooting.
• Celtics Close In on Series Clincher: The Celtics now have a 3-0 lead in the series and can clinch a berth in the second round with a victory in Game 4.