Jason Kidd, Dallas Mavericks head coach, spoke to the media ahead of Game 5 of the NBA Finals, where his team will face the Boston Celtics.
Tonight, the Dallas Mavericks aim to edge closer to an extraordinary comeback as they face the Boston Celtics in Game 5 of the 2024 NBA Finals.
After losing the first three games of the series and trailing 3-0, the Mavericks secured a crucial win in Game 4 on Friday, injecting new life into the series. As the Celtics prepare to counter in Game 5, a win for the Mavericks tonight could significantly alter the series’ trajectory.
A win would give the Mavericks a surge of momentum as they return to the American Airlines Center for Game 6. Head coach Jason Kidd hinted at a potential rotation tweak during Sunday’s media session that could play a pivotal role.
Tim Hardaway Jr. delivered an outstanding performance in Game 4, breaking free from his playoff struggles, and Kidd appears ready to capitalize on this newfound confidence by giving him more playing time in Game 5.
“He looked like Ray Allen and Stephen Curry,” Kidd remarked. “We’re going to need that here in Game 5. If it’s a close game, hopefully he’s able to knock down those same shots… Hopefully he can build on that.”
Hardaway Jr. became just the third player in NBA Finals history to hit five three-pointers in a single quarter, a feat that has seemingly earned him a spot in Dallas’ Game 5 rotation. Although he wasn’t a primary option in Game 4 initially, his contribution during Dallas’ significant lead ensured he got some valuable minutes.
"He looked like Ray and Steph. We're going to need that here in Game 5."
— NBA (@NBA) June 16, 2024
Coach Jason Kidd sounds off on Tim Hardaway Jr. catching fire in Game 4 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/xq3AcJ98do
Starting 5-for-5 from beyond the arc in Game 4, Hardaway Jr.’s performance energized Mavericks fans and appeared to restore Kidd’s confidence in him. Another strong showing from Hardaway Jr. could potentially shift the Finals’ balance in Dallas’ favor.
The Mavericks have struggled without a consistent third scorer in this series, and Hardaway Jr. could fill that role if he maintains his confidence and aligns with Dallas’ offensive strategies. By taking smart shots and leveraging his momentum from Game 4, he might provide the crucial boost the Mavericks need to extend the series.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on Tim Hardaway Jr., Jason Kidd, and the Dallas Mavericks throughout the 2024 NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics and beyond.
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