Cavaliers 101, Celtics 93 (Cavs lead 1-0)

Although the first round of playoff action isn’t completely over (Bucks/Hawks), the second round went underway Saturday night with an iconic matchup between MVP LeBron James and his Cavaliers hosting the veteran-laden Celtics. Our predictions have been compiled and will be shown after round 1 completion, but I can tell you from my standpoint, the Cavs should be able to win this series in no more than six games. Tonight’s game makes me feel confident that they could maybe even do the job in five.

The Celtics came out of the gates completely on point, and looked like they were in full focus heading into the intermission with an 11 point lead. I was at the Ref’s house watching the game and he pointed out to me that the Celtics have held 10 point leads in 15 or 16 games since the All-Star break…losing each one. Regardless of the exact figures of this stat, tonight definitely backed up his knowledge.

Mo Williams went OFF in the third quarter hitting what seemed like 10 consecutive points in a variety of ways, including one thunderous breakaway dunk. LeBron then tallied four straight points, including one at the buzzer to give the Cavs a one point lead heading into the fourth quarter. The Celtics clearly got away from their gameplan, which was to control the tempo, falling into the trap of a run and gun style game.

LeBron backed up his MVP award by dropping another near triple double in 35 points, 7 assists, and 7 rebounds. Rajon Rondo was ridiculous in this game as he had 27 points, 12 assists, and 7 rebounds.

The question I have for the Celtics after this loss are:

1. What adjustments will they make for game 2? They looked clueless at times in the second half.
2. When will Rondo realize that he can do work on anyone who guards him?
3. When will Rasheed Wallace wake up and start playing like he can? It’s one thing in the regular season…but it’s the playoff’s now!

-G