Boston Celtics: 5 keys to conference finals vs. Cavaliers
3. Protect home-court
Home-court advantage plays a huge role in pretty much all playoff matchups, as the ability to play the first two games on one’s own court, allowing them to build some momentum, can end up being the difference in a series.
During these playoffs, the Celtics have played like two separate teams when on the road compared to at home.
Undefeated in Boston, they’ve managed only one win on the road so far, by the skin of their teeth, no less, in Game 3 against the Sixers.
The Celtics are 7-0 at home this postseason (1-4 on road). They have not started 7-0 or better at home in a postseason since 2008 when they started 9-0...and went on to win the championship
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) May 10, 2018
While they do have home-court advantage against the Cavaliers, that by no means guarantees a victory for the Celtics, as Cleveland has proved more than capable of winning on the road, going 3-2 in such games during these playoffs.
Should they steal a game or two in Boston, all the pressure would swing onto the Celtics, as they haven’t proven they can consistently compete away from TD Garden, posting a 1-4 road playoff record so far.
This makes it all the more important to start the series off right, taking care of business and head to Cleveland with a 2-0 series lead.
Anything less would prove costly, as LeBron doesn’t mess around once playoff time arrives, and he’ll have no problem taking out the Celtics in as little amount of games as it takes.