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Celtics-Cavaliers: A Rematch in Cleveland
Celtics vs Cavs: Rematch in CLE. The Boston Celtics’ expected cakewalk through the Eastern Conference semifinals has hit a snag. After a dominant regular season, they now find themselves facing a resurgent Cleveland Cavaliers squad.
Boston’s 118-94 defeat in Game 2 threw a wrench into their plans. They must now navigate a hostile environment and a Cavaliers team brimming with confidence. This series bears some resemblance to their first-round matchup with Miami. However, there’s a key difference: Miami’s success in Game 2 was fueled by hot shooting, not a comprehensive performance. Cleveland’s victory felt more calculated, a strategic dismantling that exposed Boston’s weaknesses.
Three-Point Reliance Under Scrutiny
Boston led the league in both attempted and made three-pointers during the regular season. However, Game 2 exposed a potential Achilles’ heel in their offense. They hoisted 35 threes but only converted eight. Critics argue this reliance on long balls introduces an element of chance into their outcomes.
While a strong correlation exists between their regular season success and three-point shooting, questions remain. Opponents are implementing strategies to disrupt their rhythm beyond the arc. Cleveland’s defense effectively crowded Boston’s shooters, leading to a dismal 22.9% shooting performance, the Celtics’ second-worst of the season.
A Tight Contest on the Horizon?
Historically, these teams haven’t produced many nail-biters. Out of 15 meetings this spring, only one qualified as a thriller. The blowouts have been tilted heavily in both directions, suggesting a lack of experience in close games. Boston boasts a more impressive regular-season record in clutch situations, winning 63.6% of those contests. Cleveland, on the other hand, sits at 47.6%.
One of these teams will eventually be forced to navigate a close game under pressure. Boston’s experience in clutch situations might prove to be the difference.
Donovan Mitchell: Cleveland’s Engine
Donovan Mitchell’s importance to the Cavaliers is undeniable. His impact can be quantified using on/off-court metrics, similar to those used to justify Nikola Jokic’s recent MVP awards. When Mitchell is on the court, Cleveland’s performance skyrockets. Their net rating, a measure of point differential per 100 possessions, jumps significantly.
In the playoffs, this trend has been amplified. With Mitchell on the court, Cleveland boasts a stellar 106.0 offensive rating, which would have ranked poorly in the regular season. However, without him, their offense plummets to a prehistoric 89.0 rating.
Mitchell’s presence is the difference between a well-oiled machine and a team in disarray. The challenge for Cleveland’s coaching staff lies in managing his minutes effectively. While maximizing his playing time seems logical, fatigue and diminishing returns become a concern. Historically, Mitchell hasn’t fared well in games where he logs over 40 minutes.
The Battle of the Big Men
Both teams are anxiously awaiting the return of key big men. For Cleveland, it’s Jarrett Allen, sidelined with bruised ribs. While his absence has opened up the offense, his rim protection and rebounding are invaluable in the playoffs.
Boston is waiting on Kristaps Porzingis, who has been out with a calf strain. His return date remains uncertain, with some injuries of this nature taking weeks to heal. The cautious approach teams take with such injuries was highlighted by Kevin Durant’s Achilles tear in 2019.
Of the two, Allen appears more likely to make a return sooner. His presence, or lack thereof, could significantly impact the series.
The stage is set for a compelling matchup in Cleveland. Can Boston adjust their offense and weather the storm in a hostile environment? Or will the Cavaliers capitalize on their momentum and take control of the series?
