Stephen A. Smith Warns of Potential NBA Finals Sweep for Mavericks

Stephen A. Smith suggests the Dallas Mavericks might face a sweep in the NBA Finals.

The Mavericks are struggling against the Boston Celtics, trailing 2-0 after a 105-98 loss in Game 2. ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith views this as a troubling sign.

Historically, teams that lead 2-0 in the Finals are 31-5, with only nine sweeps in history. Dallas could become the tenth if Kyrie Irving doesn’t improve his performance.

Irving is averaging just 14 points per game with a 35.1% shooting percentage and has yet to make a three-pointer. Smith also pointed out that the Mavericks’ supporting players are not providing enough assistance to Luka Doncic.

Doncic recorded a triple-double with 32 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists in Game 2, averaging 31 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 6 assists over the series. Despite his efforts, Dallas has not secured a win.

For the Mavericks to challenge the Celtics, players beyond Doncic need to elevate their game. The series now shifts to the American Airlines Center, where the Mavericks hope to capitalize on home-court advantage.

"I'm not ruling out the possibility of a sweep if [the Mavs] don't get their act together."

😯 @stephenasmith pic.twitter.com/1iefYdpfPP

— First Take (@FirstTake) June 10, 2024

Traditionally, role players perform better at home, so Dallas is looking for improved contributions from P.J. Washington, Derrick Jones Jr., and Dereck Lively II.

However, the Celtics have been dominant on the road this postseason, boasting a 6-0 record in away games and an overall eight-game road winning streak dating back to last spring. The Mavericks’ home record this season was 25-16, identical to their road record.

Dallas needs standout performances from Irving and at least one other role player to reverse their fortunes in the series. Even though the Celtics had an off night in Game 2, their depth secured the win, with Jayson Tatum struggling at 6-for-22 shooting and the team hitting only 10-of-39 from three-point range.

The Mavericks must also prepare for a potential breakout game from Tatum, who has been off his game so far in the Finals. Overcoming the Celtics, who won 64 games in the regular season, will be a significant challenge.

The true test will come in Game 3 on Wednesday night, where we’ll see if Doncic and his team can respond with a stronger performance.