The Boston Celtics and the Dallas Mavericks are two storied franchises in the NBA, each with a rich history and a unique legacy. While they don’t face each other as frequently as Celtics’ rivals in the Eastern Conference, their matchups have often been intriguing and memorable. Here’s a timeline highlighting key moments and games between the Boston Celtics and the Dallas Mavericks.
Early Encounters
1980s – Initial Meetings
The Boston Celtics and Dallas Mavericks first met during the 1980s, a period marked by Boston’s dominance in the NBA. The Celtics, led by Larry Bird and a host of Hall of Famers, often played against the Mavericks, who were still establishing themselves as a competitive team. These early games often showcased the contrasting styles of the established Celtics and the up-and-coming Mavericks.
Significant Games and Moments
2001 – Mavericks Win in Boston
On March 6, 2001, the Dallas Mavericks secured a significant victory against the Boston Celtics at the TD Garden, ending the Celtics’ seven-game winning streak. Dirk Nowitzki, who would go on to become one of the greatest players in Mavericks history, was a standout performer in this game, signaling the beginning of the Mavericks’ rise as a serious contender in the NBA.
2003 – Celtics Defeat Mavericks
On January 24, 2003, the Celtics defeated the Mavericks 94-88 in Boston. This game was notable for Paul Pierce’s impressive performance, where he scored 35 points. It was a pivotal win for the Celtics, showcasing Pierce’s ability to lead the team and fend off a formidable opponent in the Mavericks.
2006 – NBA Finals Rematch
The 2006 NBA Finals, where the Miami Heat defeated the Dallas Mavericks in a dramatic seven-game series, had indirect implications for their matchups with the Celtics. The rivalry between the Celtics and Mavericks grew more intense as the Mavericks sought redemption, and the 2006-2007 season saw heightened competitive spirit between the two teams.
2008 – Celtics Triumph
On March 6, 2008, the Boston Celtics, the defending NBA champions, faced the Mavericks at the TD Garden. The Celtics won 96-86, with Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce leading the charge. This season was a peak period for the Celtics, who were dominant in both the Eastern Conference and overall NBA standings.
Recent Encounters
2011 – Mavericks Win Championship
The Dallas Mavericks’ 2011 NBA Championship was a defining moment for the franchise and indirectly impacted their matchups with the Celtics. The Mavericks’ triumph over the Miami Heat in the Finals added significant prestige to the team, making their games against the Celtics even more anticipated as they defended their title.
2016 – Key Matchup
On November 26, 2016, the Mavericks and Celtics faced off in a closely contested game. The Celtics won 90-83, with Isaiah Thomas delivering a crucial performance. This game was part of a season where the Celtics were solidifying their position as a top contender in the Eastern Conference.
2021 – Mavericks Edge Celtics
On May 2, 2021, the Dallas Mavericks defeated the Boston Celtics 125-112 in a high-scoring affair. Luka Dončić, the Mavericks’ young star, played a pivotal role in the victory, showcasing his exceptional skills and furthering his reputation as one of the league’s premier talents. This game underscored the emerging rivalry between Dončić and the Celtics’ young stars.
The Boston Celtics and Dallas Mavericks have had several memorable encounters throughout their histories. From early matchups to recent clashes, these games have showcased the evolving dynamics between two storied franchises. With the Celtics’ legacy of championship success and the Mavericks’ rise to prominence in the 2000s and beyond, their meetings continue to captivate basketball fans and contribute to the rich tapestry of NBA history.