3 Studs, 2 duds from Mavericks' dreadful Game 2 loss to Celtics

1. Stud - P.J. Washington

P.J. Washington is someone who emerged as a key to defeating the Boston Celtics in Game 1, and regardless of how the game ended in Game 2, Washington was excellent. Washington finished with 17 points, seven rebounds, and one assist while shooting 6-13 from the field.

One part of Washington's game that was particularly strong in Game 2 was his finishing in the paint, and his floater was excellent. Washington is turning into the Mavs' third star in the making due to his two-way ability is intriguing.

The Mavs need for Washington to keep developing and gaining confidence, and they may need even more out of him considering how those around he and Luka Doncic won't step up. Washington has brought consistency in both games, and his ability to finish around the rim has helped unlock another part of his game.

He's proving that he isn't just a shooter, and him being confident when driving the ball is something that will help unlock his game even more.

Washington is someone to watch in Game 3, as this series will likely be history if the Mavs can't find a way to win. No team has ever come back and won when trailing 3-0, and Washington and the Mavs have to find a way to claw out a win on Wednesday.

Even Washington admitted the Boston crowd got to them in Game 1, and now they have a chance to turn things around at home.

For all the latest on P.J. Washington and the Dallas Mavericks throughout the 2024 NBA Finals, stay tuned.