Derrick White's Block Changed the Game for Celtics

Porzingis' Return Boosts Mavericks in Game 1 Loss

Celtics Take 2-0 Series Lead in NBA Finals

The Boston Celtics' late-game lead dwindled from 14 points to five points in just two minutes, but a game-changing blocked shot by Derrick White preserved the victory for the Celtics in Game 1 of the NBA Finals against the Dallas Mavericks.

The Mavericks, who were down by 14 points with just over five minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, rallied to cut the deficit to five points on a three-pointer by Tim Hardaway Jr. with 2:30 left on the clock. But White came up with a huge block on a potential game-tying three-pointer by Luka Dončić with just over a minute remaining, and the Celtics held on for the 112-104 win.

White's block was a key moment in the game, as it prevented the Mavericks from tying the score and potentially taking the lead. The Celtics were able to close out the game from there, with Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown combining for 57 points.

Porzingis, who missed the first two games of the series with a right knee injury, returned to action for the Mavericks in Game 1 and made an immediate impact. He finished with 16 points and 12 rebounds, and his presence on the court gave the Mavericks a much-needed boost.

With the Celtics now holding a 2-0 lead in the series, the Mavericks will need to find a way to turn things around in Game 3 on Tuesday night in Dallas.