Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Boston Celtics Game 1 5/7/24 – As the NBA playoffs heat up, the spotlight shines on the Eastern Semifinals where the Cleveland Cavaliers (48-34) face off against the Boston Celtics (64-18) in a compelling Game 1. Set for Tuesday, May 7, 2024, this clash at TD Garden will not only test the mettle of both teams but also offer intriguing opportunities for bettors. Given their strong regular season records and postseason ambitions, this matchup is a key highlight in NBA Eastern Semifinals free predictions.
| When: | Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at 7:00 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | TD Garden |
| TV: | TNT |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Home court advantage is on a whole other level with a Cleveland crowd. 🔥@KayJewelers | #LetEmKnow pic.twitter.com/Mx0lRshfTL
— Cleveland Cavaliers (@cavs) May 6, 2024
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cavaliers | +11 (-109) | 209 over (-110) | +425 |  |
| Celtics | -11 (-111) | 209 under (-109) | -582 | |
| ||||
The betting odds for this game illustrate a clear favoritism towards the Boston Celtics, who are seen as heavy favorites with a -582 moneyline and a substantial -11 point spread. The Cavaliers, despite the long odds, present a high-risk, high-reward proposition for daring bettors. The total set at 209 points reflects expectations of a moderately high-scoring affair, with both teams having shown tendencies to go over in recent games.
Donovan Mitchell (SG) vs. Jayson Tatum (SF)
Donovan Mitchell has been the pivot point of the Cavaliers’ play, registering an average of 26.6 points per game across the course of his 55 games. Firstly, he is very agile and good at shooting which are his greatest strengths. But, his 2.8 turnovers per game is a weakness that can be exploited by a Celtics team which is great at punishing inattention. With Mitchell’s skill, the Cavaliers will be able to establish a competitive match.
Jayson Tatum, meanwhile, carries the Celtics with a whopping 26.9 points and 8.1 rebounds per game. With his ability to control the game on both ends and with slightly better assist-to-turnover ratio than Mitchell, he is still a vital asset to Boston. Tatum’s efficiency will play a major role in making the Celtics unstoppable at home.
The much anticipated confrontation between Mitchell and Tatum which surely promises to be a nail-biting face-off that may tip the scales in favor of a single team. With distinct skill sets in either player, their individual battles will be moving determinants of the flow of the game.
Cavaliers’ Cohesion and Execution
The statistics for the season of the Cavaliers indicate that the team played really well as the group scored an average of 112.6 points per competition and with the shooting percentage of 47.9%. From the 3-point line at 36.7 % they will muster a shooting intensity to compete with the Celtics’ tight defense. The team’s ability to make plays under pressure and rebounding at a healthy clip of 43.3 per game are definitely going to be the determining factors in the attempt of the fighters in this match to upset the favorites.
Celtics’ Strategic Advantage
Celtics not only trail the points with an average of 120.6 points per game but also show better defensive metrics with 6.6 blocks and 35.6 defensive rebounds per game. The ability of Warriors to make and sustain strategic plays, and their 38.8 percent 3-point shooting, clearly stand out above the Cavaliers.
Trends
Cleveland Cavaliers Betting Trends
Cavaliers are 2-3 in their last 5 games.
Cleveland Cavaliers are 2-3 in their last 5 games against the spread
Cavaliers are 19-21 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 3 of Cavaliers’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 23 of Cavaliers’ 41 last games at home
Boston Celtics Betting Trends
Celtics are 3-2 in their last 5 games.
Boston Celtics are 2-2 in their last 5 games against the spread
Celtics are 19-19 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 4 of Celtics’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 22 of Celtics’ 41 last games at home
Injuries
Cleveland Cavaliers
Jarrett Allen C Is “?” Tuesday vs Boston, Ribs
Ty Jerome PG Is out indefinitely, Ankle
Dean Wade PG Is out indefinitely, Knee
Craig Porter Jr. PG Is out indefinitely, Ankle
Boston Celtics
Kristaps Porzingis PF Is out indefinitely, Calf
Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Boston Celtics Betting Picks
Considering the depth and consistency of both teams, the Celtics appear poised to take an early series lead, especially with home-court advantage. However, the Cavaliers present value at +425, which might attract those looking for a high-value upset pick. For those interested in safer bets, considering the over on total points could be wise given recent trends.
The best betting websites suggest leaning towards the Celtics to cover the spread in what promises to be a competitive but ultimately one-sided affair. Prop bets on key players like Tatum to score over his points average could offer additional value. Sign up today to make your NBA betting prediction!
Score Prediction: Celtics 112, Cavaliers 99.
