Boston Celtics: 5 reasons they can upset the Cleveland Cavaliers
By Jake Finnen
1. Emphasis on improved defense
Watching the Celtics play inspires hope that the flopping era might come to an end. Well, aside from Marcus Smart’s random flailing that would make Anderson Varejao cringe.
More from Boston Celtics
- Why the new and improved Celtics are a major threat
- These two Celtics will be crucial to unlocking Kristaps Porzingis’ potential
- The new-look Celtics are closer than ever to an 18th title
- 3 Reasons Boston will regret trading Marcus Smart
- Ranking the 5 best available power forwards in 2023 NBA free agency
Boston’s consistent hustle on defense — despite its undersized roster — causes opponents to miss shots. Among the playoff teams that have played more than 10 games this postseason, the Celtics are third in opponent field goal percentage (45 percent) and first in opponent three-point percentage (31 percent).
The Celtics’ rough style of defense can throw teams like Cleveland off — even teams that seem to have a clear size and rebounding advantage. Against Washington, the rebounding woes continued, but the consistency on defense paid off after seven games.
Wizards role players like Marcin Gortat and Otto Porter could not produce throughout the stretch, allowing Boston to close out the series. Each possession is going to matter this series, and the Celtics should be able to keep up with the Cavaliers every step of the way.
They will not be able to keep Kyrie Irving, LeBron James, and Kevin Love from scoring, but if they contain the supporting cast, consistent solid outings from Boston can send Cleveland packing.