Celtics' Path to the NBA Finals: Who Stands in Their Way?
The Boston Celtics have been turning heads this season, surpassing expectations and solidifying their position as a top contender in the Eastern Conference. With a 36-19 record, they’re sitting pretty at second place and are one of only three teams to boast top-eight rankings in both offensive and defensive ratings.
Jaylen Brown is leading the charge, not just with his career-high 29.2 points per game but with an all-around impact that has him firmly in the MVP conversation. If Jayson Tatum returns strong from his Achilles injury, Boston could be a formidable force come playoff time.
But the road to the Finals won’t be easy. Let’s break down the top contenders standing in Boston’s way, along with a couple of wild cards that could shake things up.
1. Detroit Pistons
The Pistons have emerged as serious title contenders with a 41-13 record. After making the playoffs last season for the first time since 2019, they’ve taken another leap forward. Detroit’s impressive 7-2 record against the top five in the East, including a 2-1 edge over the Celtics, speaks volumes.
Defensively, they’re elite-ranking second in defensive rating and leading the league in both steals and blocks per game. Cade Cunningham is making his MVP case with averages of 25.7 points, 9.7 assists, and 5.7 rebounds.
His performances against Boston have been stellar, putting up 28.8 points and 9.3 assists in their matchups. Rebounding has been a sticking point for Boston against Detroit, but the addition of Nikola Vucevic could help level the playing field.
2. New York Knicks
With a 35-21 record, the Knicks have shown they’re not intimidated by the Celtics, having eliminated them in last season’s Eastern Conference semifinals. They’ve maintained a 2-1 record against Boston this year, with a potent offense that’s scoring 111 points per game and shooting over 40% from deep in those contests.
Defensively, they’re robust, with a lineup full of quality wing defenders like Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby. Jalen Brunson continues to be a clutch performer, leading a balanced scoring attack where nine players average nine or more points per game. Their size and depth make them a tough matchup for any team.
3. Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cavs are red-hot, riding a six-game win streak and sporting a 9-1 record over their last ten games. The trade for James Harden has paid off, with Harden fitting seamlessly into the lineup. He’s averaging 18.5 points and 8.8 assists while shooting nearly 46% from three.
Cleveland ranks second in points per game and has a top-ten offensive and defensive rating. However, their 26th-ranked 3-point defense could be a vulnerability against Boston’s sharpshooters. Donovan Mitchell’s shot-making ability could be the key to overcoming past playoff disappointments.
Wild Cards
The Charlotte Hornets are making noise with a 10-2 run, holding the final play-in spot. Rookie Kon Knueppel is impressing with 18.8 points per game and a 43.2% clip from three. They’ll face the Celtics three times before the playoffs, which could be pivotal.
The Philadelphia 76ers, despite past playoff woes, could also pose a threat. Joel Embiid is a dominant force, averaging 26.6 points and 7.5 rebounds. With a strong backcourt featuring Tyrese Maxey and rookie VJ Edgecombe, the Sixers could surprise if they find their stride.
As the regular season winds down, the Celtics will need to navigate these challenges to make their Finals dream a reality. Each contender brings unique strengths that Boston will have to counter with strategy, depth, and star power.