FanNation

Boston Celtics set to face off against the Cleveland Cavaliers

please excuse this blog for being brief as I have a massive headache and just want to go to bed.

Three of the conference semifinals are underway and tomorrow night the second Eastern Conference semifinal begins. Let's take a look.

Despite blowing out the Hawks in game 7, the Celtics come into this series vulnerable. While it is possible for a team to win a title without winning a game on the road, it is not probable. The Celtics big three as well as their other players need to bring their intensity and effort on the road if they are to advance to the next round. You have to give the Cavaliers a lot of credit. While the Wizards did a lot talking to the press and on their blogs, the Cavaliers did their talking on the court. LeBron James was outstanding as he took a lot of shots, but was able to create offense for himself, as well as getting his teammates invovled. One thing to take notice, the chemistry the Cavaliers did not have after making that big three way trade with both the Bulls and Sonics is now there. Look for the Celtics to do a little of switching defenders on James as well as double teams. But, unlike the Hawks the Cavaliers have players who can make the outside shot. Backcourt starters Wally Szczerbiak and Delonte West are both good outside shooters. And Daniel Gibson is a great shooter off the bench. The Cavaliers certainly have a good chance in this series and will give the Celtics problems. But, I need to give the Celtics some love. I think they have learned a lesson and will be ready for what the Cavs have to offer. The Celtics will improve defense on the road, as well as overall shooting the three, they have been relativley weak from downtown so far.

Prediction: Celtics defeat the Cavaliers in 6 games.