3 Eastern Conference first-round matchups we need in the NBA Playoffs

Eastern Conference NBA Playoffs matchup — Brooklyn Nets versus Boston Celtics

The Brooklyn Nets are certainly the betting favorite for many when it comes to this year’s NBA title favorite. With one of the best leading trios in NBA history consisting of Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and James Harden, the Nets have more superstars than any other team in the association.

Still, health remains a prominent issue for them, as those three have only played in seven games together this season. Even without their stars being able to stay healthy simultaneously, the Nets stand alone atop the Eastern Conference with a 42-20 record. With the playoffs rapidly approaching, that lack of chemistry is among the glaring issues that could prevent a full-strength Brooklyn team from breezing through the East and to the Finals.

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On the other hand, the Boston Celtics have been one of the most disappointing teams in the association this season with a measly 32-30 record. Despite having an All-Star tandem of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, along with well-rounded pieces like Marcus Smart and Kemba Walker, this team has struggled. Various injuries and battles with the league’s health and safety protocols are surely to take some of the blame for that, but Boston’s overall struggles this season are a headscratcher.

They currently sit at sixth place in the East standings as their identity largely remains a mystery with the season nearing an end. This is a team that could be a first-round exit but just as easily make a run throughout the conference and end up in the NBA Finals if they get everything clicking down the stretch.

A Boston versus Brooklyn series would certainly be a must-see, given the abundance of All-Star talent facing off one another. Seeing Irving face off against his former team in the Celtics would heighten the dramatic impact further in a matchup of two top-heavy opponents.