The Celtics picked up their first win and are 1-3 so far this season. It’s uncharacteristic of Boston, but it’s to be expected with a weaker roster.
Meanwhile, the Cavaliers remain one of the Eastern Conference’s best squads. They’re 3-1 and get this nationally televised matchup against Boston on Wednesday.
Cleveland is a 3.5-point favorite and -180 on the moneyline, while Boston is +150 on DraftKings Sportsbook. The total is set to 232.5 points. Below, I’ll break down this matchup with a preview, prediction and best bet.
Cavaliers vs. Celtics preview, prediction
It’s still weird seeing the Celtics struggle after years and years of excellence. It’ll take some adjustment without Jayson Tatum, Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porzingis and Al Horford. The team is now led by Jaylen Brown and Derrick White until Tatum returns from injury.
The losses could keep piling up, however, as Boston hosts the Cavaliers on Wednesday. Cleveland is 3-1 despite Darius Garland’s injury. Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley have created a formidable duo, with Sam Merrill stepping up big time.
Mitchell will likely remain the top scoring threat, but it’s Mobley and Jarrett Allen that will pose the biggest challenge for Boston. With Horford and Porzingis gone, and Tatum injured, the Celtics’ front court is incredibly thin. Neemias Queta is the primary rim protector and will have his hands full against the two Cleveland titans.
Allen isn’t much of a scorer, but the rebounding difference could be massive. The Knicks, who are missing Mitchell Robinson, out-rebounded the Celtics 53-37 earlier this season. A team that wins the offensive rebounding battle often wins the game.
Cavaliers vs. Celtics pick, best bet
Even with Garland out, the Cavaliers have proven to be a much better team early on. Merrill’s scoring has been a major part of this, but the inside presence of Mobley and Allen will be the main reason for this victory.
Boston won’t be able to keep up with Cleveland’s front court. The Cavaliers should win easily, covering the 3.5-point spread.