The Dallas Mavericks’ offensive struggles in Game 1 against the Boston Celtics were evident. Last night, the Celtics (23) had 14 more assists than the Mavs (9), made 9 more threes than Dallas (7), and led in the blocking category 9-1. Ultimately, Boston blew out the Mavericks to get the Finals going. Speaking of the Mavericks’ disappointing 89-197 loss, 3x All-Star Gilbert Arenas suggested how Luka Doncic and the team desperately need a new offensive strategy to keep their pace against the Celtics. And as noted from the matchup and Arenas’ comments, the teams’ offensive strategy heavily depends on the Slovenian superstar.

Agent Zero pointed out how the Celtics easily managed to crack it down by having their star player Jayson Tatum guard Daniel Gafford, which disrupted their offensive game. Most importantly, it limited the opportunities for Doncic, where he could only score for himself. Arenas suggested posting up against Tatum, which will ultimately lead them to switch and open up new offensive opportunities for the Mavericks.

“Here’s why Luca’s game in their offense is built around drop coverages right. The big is going to sit, Luka gets in there, Luka gets in, Luka passes, Luka gets here. Leave Luca, steps back so he gets to play this Mickey Mouse game with everybody. Well, the smartest thing that Boston did that no one seen coming was put Jayson Tatum on Gafford,” Gilbert Arenas said on Nightcap along with Shannon Sharpe. The retired NBA player is not the only one with this opinion. 

Right after the game, analyst Richard Jefferson was quick to point out the matter. He stated how the 5x NBA All-Star is the top scorer but the Celtics boast of a more balanced team. The Celtics had six players score in double figures in Game 1. Furthermore, Tatum’s squad has multiple scoring options that can overpower the Mavericks. NBA legend Magic Johnson also held the same opinion. 

Magic Johnson saw this coming

Just a few days ago, he highlighted how the Boston Celtics have multiple defenders who can stop the Slovenian star. Following the game, Johnson stated on X, “The Celtics defense smothered the Mavs and took them completely out their game. Like I said earlier this week – the Celtics just have more depth and firepower than the Mavs and it was on full display tonight!”

After Kyrie Irving‘s powerful performance leading the Dallas Mavericks to defeat the Timberwolves, he wasn’t able to show the same strength against his former team. Kyrie scored 12 points, while his teammate Doncic struggled alone to put up a game-high 30 points.

To survive in the Finals, the Mavericks not only need to utilize all their offensive weapons effectively but also need Uncle Drew to stand next to Doncic. 

Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, has to say about the Reese-Clark rivalry and more, watch this video.