Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Boston Celtics: Preview, Where to Watch and Betting Odds

The Eastern Conference Semifinals shift to Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse in Cleveland, Ohio, for Game 3 following the Cleveland Cavaliers unscripted play to upset the Boston Celtics. The series is surprisingly tied 1-1 after the Cavaliers stunned the top-seeded Celtics in Game 2. Game 3 is shaping up to be a battle of who gets the momentum after Donovan Mitchell and the cast delivered an offensive and defensive masterclass in Game 2. Although still massively favored on the money line ahead of the third game, the Celtics need adjustments in defense and offense to get their star players firing again.

Basketball: NBA Playoffs, Eastern Conference Semifinal Game 3

Where to Watch: ABC

Venue: Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, Cleveland, OH

Date: 12.05.2024 03:30

The Cavaliers return home with newfound confidence and momentum after flipping the script in Game 2, and dismantling the Boston Celtics 118-94. In a cavalier approach to Game 2, Cleveland mentally overcame the thrashing received in Game 1 as Donovan Mitchell spearheaded the charge, scoring 29 points with a hot scoring burst in the third quarter. Evan Mobley's double-double was in tandem with his recent consistency, while Caris LeVert came off the bench to score 21 points. The Cavaliers' three-point shooting proved lethal, draining 13 threes for a 46% performance.

Following a shocking home defeat, the Boston Celtics face a tough test on the road. Their defense, a key factor in their first-round success, was uncharacteristically porous against the Cavaliers. Boston's usually potent offense faltered, with Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown struggling from beyond the arc, combining for a poor 1-for-14 showing from downtown. The Celtic's offensive cast needs to rediscover their shooting touch, while the team will also prepare to deal with a rejuvenated fanbase that will be as hostile as possible.

The Cleveland Cavaliers are 3.7 underdogs on 1XBET, and the Boston Celtics are priced at 1.741 for the (-7) handicap. Over 210.5 is available for 1.80 odds on Betway, with the under listed at 1.77. Donovan Mitchell to score over 29.5 points is 1.95 on Bet365, which prices Jayson Tatum to score under 27.5 at 1.86 odds. Read more.