Last season’s NBA Finals competitors, the Boston Celtics and the Dallas Mavericks, will meet for the first time this season on Saturday at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. Jayson Tatum was the unsung hero in the team’s success last season, even though he narrowly missed out on the NBA Cup Finals MVP award.
Tatum’s impact in the series against the Mavericks was undeniable, as he averaged an impressive 22.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 7.2 assists over five games. Tatum will once again spearhead Boston’s efforts to assert their dominance against Dallas heading into Saturday’s game.
Tatum’s team has a distinct advantage this time, as Mavericks star Luka Doncic remains sidelined with a calf injury. On the other hand, the Celtics have listed only Derrick White as questionable with a knee issue.
#Celtics Injury Report vs. #Mavericks 1/25/24: pic.twitter.com/Gl36960dJW
— CeltsAllDay (@celtsallday_) January 25, 2025
In addition to Doncic’s absence, the Mavericks are also dealing with a lengthy injury list. Klay Thompson is listed as questionable due to an ankle issue, Dwight Powell is out with a hip injury. Jaden Hardy is questionable with an ankle concern, Naji Marshall is sidelined by illness. Both Dante Exum and Dereck Lively are out with wrist and ankle injuries, respectively.
Charles Barkley Takes Aim At Jayson Tatum’s Olympic Bench Role
Jayson Tatum has been the center of attention during the Paris Olympics, but not for reasons he might have preferred. Team USA coach Steve Kerr faced widespread scrutiny after controversially benching Jayson Tatum. On TNT’s Thursday broadcast, NBA legend Charles Barkley added fuel to the fire with a subtle dig at Kerr.
“Great player. Just not great enough to play in the Olympics. One of the five best players in the East but not good enough to represent his country!” Barkley said.
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Amid the controversy, Tatum received uplifting news as he was named a starter for the 2025 NBA All-Star Game. The Celtics forward will represent the Eastern Conference, and it marks the third time in his career he has earned this honor.
Also Read: Dallas Mavericks vs. Boston Celtics: Date, Time, Venue, Ticket Prices, And Other Details
