Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the NBA match.
The Boston Celtics and the Cleveland Cavaliers were the strongest teams in the Eastern Conference last season, but things have changed dramatically. The Celtics are 1-3 to start the campaign and come into this matchup as clear underdogs.
Boston Celtics
The Boston Celtics earned their first win of the regular season a few days ago, defeating an injury-hit New Orleans side (122:90). However, that result shouldn’t be overestimated given the opponent’s crisis. The Celtics’ major issue lies in the frontcourt, and it’s been glaring. Against the Detroit Pistons (113:119) they were destroyed on the boards 38-55, and the same thing happened versus the New York Knicks (95:105), losing the rebound battle 37-53.
Cleveland Cavaliers
After dropping their season opener to the Knicks (111:119), the Cavaliers bounced back with three consecutive wins, including over strong opposition such as the Detroit Pistons (116:95) and the Milwaukee Bucks (118:113). Donovan Mitchell’s incredible form has been the driving force, averaging 31.3 points per game, while Sam Merrill has been a revelation off the bench with 17.3 points in 25 minutes, providing much-needed depth behind Darius Garland.
Boston Celtics vs Cleveland Cavaliers Prediction
This version of the Boston Celtics is far from an elite team in the East. They look directionless and will struggle to compete with an in-form Cleveland Cavaliers squad.
