By Justin Batiste
Who’s the most pressure on for game 7?
The pattern in this series continues after the home team wins again, and now we’ll be seeing a game 7 in Boston Sunday night. Last night the Cavaliers were able to force a game 7 after defeating the Celtics 109-99. Although, the Celtics shot a better percentage than the Cavaliers it was the turnovers that hurt this team the most last night. The Cavaliers had their share of turnovers also, but it was the timing of the Celtics turnovers that hurt them. It seemed like every time the Celtics were on the verge of coming back a turnover would occur. Free throws and the shot making of the Cavaliers hurt them also, but it was the turnovers that stood out for the Celtics in this game. LeBron James scoring 46 points doesn’t help either, or George Hill pouring in 20. Now we get to see both teams go at it in game 7.
The story of this series is very simple. Whatever team plays at home wins. So, this should be an easy pick. Celtics in 7. If the Celtics were going up against any other team, then yes, Celtics in 7. You can still say Celtics in 7, because of how bad Cleveland has looked on the road this series. However, the way LeBron has been playing and because it’s game 7 has to make you think a little bit longer about your pick. Why? This is a game 7, although both teams haven’t been able to produce on the road it’s a win or go home situation. This changes up everything. It’s only one game that a team has to win. Both teams will play their best basketball. Offensively, everyone for the Cavaliers besides LeBron has been absent on the road this series. The pressure in on them to show up. Defensively, everyone for the Cavaliers must play their best game.
The whole series the play of everyone has been consistent except for the Cavaliers role players. The Celtics for the most part have been productive on the road and have been great at home. Same for LeBron. At home the Cavaliers have been great, but when it comes to road play it’s been a different story.
It’s going to take a LeBron performance and then some for the Cavaliers to pull off a win in the Garden. Their undefeated there for a reason. So, we know what to expect from the Celtics. It’s the Cavaliers that’s a wild card. But if there’s any team that can beat the Celtics at home it’s the Cavaliers. Mainly, because of LeBron James. Game 6 was a perfect example. The Celtics remain with the momentum moving on to game 7 because they’ve been so dominant at home, but it’s game 7. One game to go to the Finals.
