BOSTON – The league-leading Cleveland Cavaliers are set to face the defending NBA champion Boston Celtics on Friday night for the fourth and final time this regular season at TD Garden. The game is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET and will be broadcast live on ESPN.
This matchup highlights two of the best teams not just in the Eastern Conference, but across the league. The Cavaliers (48-10) currently hold the NFL's best record and aim to even the season series against Boston, which they split earlier this season before Boston clinched their last encounter on February 4. Fans can watch the game via multiple streaming services, including FuboTV, DirecTV Stream, and SlingTV, which all offer free trial options.
Both teams have had remarkable seasons, though they arrive at this pivotal moment under different circumstances. The Cavaliers have been swept up by an impressive eight-game winning streak, showcasing their dominance with the highest point differential (+11.7) and leading the league with 39.4% shooting from three-point range. Their offensive performance is matched by solid defense, currently ranked among the top 10 in several key statistical categories, including points allowed per game (111.2).
On the flip side, the Celtics (42-17) recently had their six-game winning streak snapped by the Detroit Pistons, losing by 20 points. Nevertheless, they've won 10 of their last 12 games and remain accustomed to high-stakes situations as the reigning champions.
Key players are pivotal as both teams navigate through injuries. The Celtics must contend with the absence of two key contributors going forward. All-Star forward Jaylen Brown is listed as questionable due to a left thigh contusion which sidelined him during the Celtics’ previous game against the Pistons. Meanwhile, veteran guard Jrue Holiday has been ruled out with a right hand mallet finger injury and center Kristaps Porzingis is also marked as out due to illness. Having lost Brown and Holiday significantly undercuts Boston's talent pool against the Cavaliers.
“With Holiday out and Brown’s status uncertain, our rotation is facing serious challenges,” said Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla. “We will need to adjust our strategy and rely heavily on our depth throughout this game.”
Confirming Brown's condition is concerning for Boston fans, as he has been integral to their recent success, leading as the Finals MVP last year.
On the Cavaliers’ side, they have exciting news for their fans as All-Star point guard Darius Garland has returned to play after missing two games due to hip issues. His return is expected to bolster Cleveland's chances against the threat the Celtics present. The Cavaliers' roster is fully healthy, which allows head coach Kenny Atkinson to explore all lineup options freely.
“Having all players available for this kind of high-pressure game is pivotal,” Atkinson remarked. “This is not just about securing another win; it’s also about making statements at this point of the season.”
The Cavaliers remain anchored by Donovan Mitchell, who averages 24.0 points, along with the dynamic presence of Darius Garland, whose performance has garnered attention as he averages 21.3 points per game with 6.7 assists and almost shoots 50% from the field.
Cleveland relies not just on their star power, but also on their depth brought on by effective bench players. New addition De’Andre Hunter contributes 18.3 points per game, showcasing the offensive versatility the Cavaliers now possess. He has adapted seamlessly since joining the team during the trade deadline.
Conversely, Boston’s own superstars Jayson Tatum and Brown headline their scoring efforts. Tatum is averaging 26.6 points and contributes heavily with rebounds and assists. The absence or reduced efficiency of Brown could swing the game dramatically toward the Cavaliers, especially with his final performance following winner-takes-all events.
With both squads fully aware of the stakes—Cleveland is eager to reaffirm their dominance and Boston intends to stake their claim to the Eastern Conference as formidable postseason contenders—the atmosphere is expected to be electric.
Fans and analysts alike are watching closely, knowing this game may serve as a precursor to what could be seen later this postseason if both teams meet again.
Tonight’s game between the Cavaliers and Celtics will not only reflect the current standings of the two franchises, but also create ripples heading forward toward playoff consideration and history-making endeavors. A win for Cleveland allows them to even their record with Boston this season and solidify their lead over rival teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder for the best record overall.
Whether or not the presence of Brown or Holiday can change the dynamics of the game remains uncertain. With the second half of the season winding down and playoff positioning at stake, both teams and their rosters will be putting their skills to the test on the court.