Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Boston Celtics Game 2 5/9/24 – As the NBA playoffs heat up, the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Boston Celtics prepare for a pivotal Game 2 in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. The Celtics, boasting an impressive regular season record of 64-18, host the Cavaliers, who have a respectable 48-34 tally, at TD Garden this Thursday. This matchup is not only a test of resilience for the Cavaliers but also a display of dominance by the Celtics, making it a crucial encounter for NBA Semifinals betting predictions.
| When: | Thursday, May 9, 2024, at 7:00 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | TD Garden |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Keep going. @spidadmitchell | #LetEmKnow pic.twitter.com/iOQofiGxT5
— Cleveland Cavaliers (@cavs) May 8, 2024
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cavaliers | +13.5 -110 | O 213 -110 | +600 |  |
| Celtics | -13.5 -110 | U 213.5 -110 | -900 | |
| ||||
The betting odds for this matchup are eagerly anticipated, with both teams showing competitive edge. Bettors should keep an eye on the spread once it’s released, as it will provide deeper insights into expected performance and might hint at a closer contest than the standings suggest.
Donovan Mitchell (SG) vs. Jayson Tatum (SF)
Donovan Mitchell has indeed been a phenomenon in his second season with the Cavaliers, scoring an average of 26.6 points, rebounding 5.1 and dishing 6.1 assists. Mitchell has a slashing game making nice duet with Cleveland, but he has a turnover problem sometimes. Due to their high-powered offense, the team from Boston will be extremely tough to beat on their home court.
This season, Jayson Tatum has transformed into a MVP-candidate as he has been averaging green figures of 26.9 points, 8.1 rebounds and 4.9 assists per game. He is a good mid-range shooter and definitely has been aggressive driving inside the box as well. Length and versatility of Tatum make him the toughest defender in the game at both ends. A win or a defeat in this match could mean either a 2-0 lead or a tied series for Boston.
The matchup between these two elite guards of their teams in the individual level could determine the game result. If Mitchell catches fire from three, or Tatum becomes unstoppable in the paint, this triangle (representational) will definitely be worth watching.
Cleveland’s Tactical Analysis
Cavaliers consistently put up the same numbers averaging 112.6 PPG with a field goal percentage of 47.9% effective from behind the 3-point line at 36. By stretching the Celtics’ defense 7% more could be decisive during the playoff season. On one hand, their higher average turnovers and fouls per game than the Celtics is an area of weakness that their coach can address before the final battle.
Boston’s Strategic Edge
Celtics have been able to earn the reputation of strongest defense and offense across the NBA. This kind of defense permits the team to concede the least points (104.5) while getting the second highest (120.6) – two greatest figures. The Celtics can expect to get production from different players. No doubt, home court brings the Celtics more than simply additional fans.
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 “?” Thursday 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
Based on the comprehensive analysis and the recent trends, Boston appears to have a slight edge, especially playing at home with a robust scoring and defensive rebounding setup. Bettors should consider this when looking at spreads and moneylines on top-tier online betting sites.
For prop bets, watching the over/under will be crucial, especially with both teams trending towards high-scoring games. The pivotal players like Mitchell and Tatum are also worth considering for points or rebounds over bets due to their crucial roles in their respective teams.
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Score Prediction: Celtics 118, Cavaliers 110.
