The Boston Celtics refuse to leave playoff contention. The Celtics are still 2nd in the NBA’s Eastern Conference, sitting behind the heavily favored Cleveland Cavaliers. Not only are the Celtics in second, but they are trailing the Cavs by just two games. This margin has been consistent throughout the season, a testament to their drive and skill, especially considering how stacked the Cavs are. For New Hampshire residents, New England teams are the closest thing to a home team, and the Celtics are looking to join the Patriots this year in regards to New England sports dominance.
It’s impossible to discuss this season’s Celtics without mentioning Isaiah Thomas. The point guard’s tenacity has reinvigorated this team and he is emerging as a breakout franchise player. Averaging 29.7 points a game at 46.5% accuracy, the 5’9 player is redefining the position. Aside from his consistent numbers, Thomas has showcased his clutch ability several times this season with game-winners and memorable fourth quarter performances.
Despite Thomas’ phenomenal season, basketball is a team sport. Backup guard Avery Bradley has been performing well, averaging 17.1 points a game. Al Horford, center, is averaging 14.2 points and 7 rebounds a game. Backup center Kelly Olynyk is averaging 5 rebounds a game. Both Horford’s and Olynyk’s numbers highlight a key flaw in the Celtics—rebounding. If the Celtics are serious about going far in the postseason, they’re going to need to address their rebounding issue. A solid rebounding option would’ve been a nice pickup before the trade deadline, but that never happened.
Speaking of the trade deadline, there were rumors that star player Jimmy Butler was going to come over from the Chicago Bulls. This trade would’ve been very interesting, especially considering the Celtics’ title push. However, the trade never came to fruition and now all anyone can do is wonder, ‘What if?’
The playoffs may be still sometime away, but they will be here soon enough. As it stands now, the Celtics would be up against the Indiana Pacers in the first round. The projected Eastern Conference Finals are between the Cavs and the Celtics. So, if the Celtics can keep their impressive form up and survive the other strong East contenders, that projection may come true. The Cavs may be favored to go to the NBA Finals for a third straight year (most likely against the Golden State Warriors, for a third straight year), but if any team in the East can give them a run for their money it’s looking like the Celtics. The beauty of a 7-game series is that it can go anywhere. The Cavs aren’t considered as good of a team as they were last year, so it’s unlikely that they’d sweep the Celtics aside like they were a D-league team. It is worth noting that the Cavs are 2-0 against the Celtics so far in their season series, but the playoffs are an entirely different animal. Nothing brings the best out of a team, and the most surprises, than the postseason.
For bettors, the Celtics are an attractive wager going into most games. As far as the NBA Finals go, they may end up being the storybook underdog team that goes against all odds. New Hampshire sports gambling uses offshore sportsbooks, all of which are legally sanctioned and regulated, where New Hampshire residents can bet on the Celtics, or any other team for that matter. Only time will tell how the standings end up at the start of the playoffs, but you may as well give the Celtics their berth now, as they don’t look to be going anywhere.