Boston Celtics are one win away from record 18th NBA championship

The GIST: Fresh off Wednesday’s 106–99 Game 3 win over the Dallas Mavericks, the Boston Celtics (up 3-0) are one win away from a league record 18th championship trophy. Will the dominant Cs complete the sweep or can the Mavs stay alive?

• Here’s what to know ahead of tonight’s massive 8:30 p.m. ET Game 4.

Boston’s 48 minutes away from history: No team has ever rallied from an 0-3 deficit in the NBA postseason, much less in the Finals, adding to the air of inevitability that’s surrounded the bridesmaid Celtics all season.

• But now, the Cs are finally meeting the moment: Superstars Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum look unstoppable, and defensive stalwart Jrue Holiday has proven he was the Celtics’ missing link after seasons of disappointment in the Hub.

• Plus, injured big man Kristaps Porziņģis could return to the court tonight, possibly bolstering Boston’s already lockdown defense. TL;DR? Ready that broom.

Dallas Mavericks look out of sorts: The Mavs’ Luka Dončić is a game-changer, but not when he’s on the bench. Luka’s poor defense caused him to foul out of Game 3 in the fourth quarter, stymying Dallas’ comeback attempt. And while he directs his ire at the referees, it may be better suited for his teammates.

• Though Kyrie Irving broke out of his shooting slump with 35 points in Game 3, the rest of the Mavs have looked inexperienced and out of sync, with 11 different players hitting the floor in an effort to spark some flames. It’s light it up or head home tonight.