10 players who could be huge X-factors in Celtics-Mavs NBA Finals

10 players who could be huge X-factors in Celtics-Mavs NBA Finals originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston

The 2024 NBA Finals doesn’t lack star power.

Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum and Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic are both first team All-NBA players. Mavs guard Kyrie Irving and C’s wing Jaylen Brown are two of the best No. 2 options in the league. Together, they represent four of the top 20 players in the sport.

Despite the big names on both rosters, this series could very well be decided by the supporting casts.

Which third, fourth or fifth starter will make a huge impact? Which role player is going to change the outcome of a game with a hot shooting night from 3-point range or a couple clutch defensive plays?

These teams both have impressive depth. Each rotation goes eight or nine guys deep. There will be opportunities for non-superstar players to glow in the spotlight of the Finals stage.

Let’s take a look at five players on each team who could play a pivotal role in the outcome as X-factors.

Normally a player of Porzingis’ caliber would be too talented to put on an X-factor list, but his injury status makes him worthy of inclusion this time.

The Celtics have not said whether Porzingis will play in Game 1, but he’s looked pretty good in practice. If he does play and is able to contribute anywhere near a high level, it would be a massive boost for the Celtics at both ends of the floor.

They’d be essentially adding a player capable of scoring 20-plus points per game who can stretch the floor and finish inside, particularly off offensive rebounds. He’s also a fantastic interior defender who blocks and alters opponents’ shots around the rim.

A lot has been made of how the Celtics’ path to the Finals was easy to some injuries their opponents had to deal with. But it’s important not to forget that the Celtics have been without their starting center — and an All-Star caliber one — for the last 10 games.

If Porzingis returns and plays well against the Mavericks, it’s hard to see the Celtics losing the series. And he should be plenty motivated to perform at a high level against his former team.

White’s defense…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/10-players-could-huge-x-171513618.html

Author : NBC Sports Boston

Publish date : 2024-06-03 17:54:21

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