2018 NBA Playoffs: Boston Celtics vs. Cleveland Cavaliers preview

1. Battle of the brains: Brad Stevens or LeBron James?

It’s no secret that Brad Stevens is arguably the best coach in the NBA, as his offensive playbook could probably allow a benchwarmer to score 15+ in a game.

His out-of-bounds plays and late-game execution have become legendary, as the Celtics always manage to get an open look, even when one doesn’t seem possible.

While Stevens is the best from the sideline, LeBron James is without a doubt the smartest player on the court, as his experience and IQ make it impossible for him to face a defense he hasn’t already seen, and then pick it apart at the seams.

James’ brain is so far advanced that he can execute any play from any position, and he’s seen so much that he’s begun executing the opposing team’s offense for them during the game.

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When it comes to advancing in the playoffs, execution always plays a huge role. Whichever team can carry out their respective coach’s game plan puts themselves in a great position to win, as that strategy usually contains everything necessary for a victory

However long this series lasts, it’ll be interesting to watch the chess match between two of the smartest minds in the NBA.

Stevens’ job is to stop LeBron James, but what can a defense do against a player who’s seen every defense imaginable with no noticeable weakness?

Whatever Stevens throws at James, assume LeBron will dissect it like the best surgeon in basketball, and expect LeBron to break down Boston’s offensive system, attempting to get his teammates to understand what he already knows.

Whatever these two mad men figure out about each other, expect both to counter repeatedly until one of them heads to the Finals, while the other heads home for the summer.