Cleveland Cavaliers vs Boston Celtics Prediction & Betting Tips - NBA

Prediction published on 13/05/2024, 01:22  by Kennedy Kechula in NBA Predictions

The Cleveland Cavaliers will host the Boston Celtics for game four of the two sides' Eastern Conference semi-final playoff matchup. They trail 2-1 after losing game three at home. The Cavaliers suffered their first home loss of these playoffs when they went down 106-93 in game three. They trailed for the majority of the game and were extensively let down by their rebounding. J.B. Bickerstaff's men will have to respond immediately to avoid going to Boston for an elimination match in game five. They won game two in Boston by more than 20 points and this coupled with their home record should build up their confidence. The Cavaliers, who have won three of the last four home games against the Celtics, are averaging 97.7 points in the playoffs. They also are ranked third in points allowed from three-point range. Donovan Mitchell has had to do the heavy lifting on offence for an injury-plagued Cavs team. Averaging 29.6 points, Mitchell scored a team-leading 33 points in game three. The guard is however doubtful for game four due to a calf issue. Cleveland have already had to battle without Jarret Allen, Craig Porter Jr. and Dean Wade.

The Boston Celtics continued their impressive away record in these playoffs with their game three victory. Joe Mazzulla’s men are unbeaten on the road in the postseason. They defeated the Heat in round one in five games. In that series, they lost game two at home but bounced back to win the next three fixtures, twice in Miami. They are in a similar position against the Cavs. Victory in game four will set them up nicely to try and wrap up the series on home court. Boston were dominant in game three and at one point had accumulated a 23-point lead. After a poor shooting night in game two, they were back in their element as the series switched to Cleveland. The Celtics shot 51% from the field and 38% from three. They shot 22% from three in game two, missing 27 attempts. Jason Tatum and Jalen Brown combined for 61 points in game three. The two are averaging at least 23 points per game in this playoffs. Boston, who are averaging 107.4 points in the postseason, will continue to be without Kristaps Porzingis. The centre has missed the last four games with a calf problem. Their backup centre, Luke Kornet is also dealing with the same issue.