Cleveland Cavaliers (48-34) vs. Boston Celtics (64-18)
The NBA East Semifinals are heating up as the Cleveland Cavaliers take on the Boston Celtics in a crucial Game 5 on Wednesday, May 15, 2024. Holding a 2-1 series lead, the Celtics aim to leverage their impressive 64-18 regular-season record to move one step closer to the conference finals. The game is set to unfold at the illustrious TD Garden, a fortress where dreams are made and shattered. With both teams geared up for this pivotal clash, fans and bettors alike are scouting the best online casino and sportsbooks for favorable odds and thrilling game-time action.
The Cleveland Cavaliers, who finished the regular season with a 48-34 record, have demonstrated exceptional perseverance in the playoffs. Defensively, the Cavs score an average of 112.6 points per game while shooting at 47.9% efficiency from the field. Their 36.7% three-point shooting rate and 13.5 made threes per game are, in fact, a testimony of their capability to make three-pointers.
On the contrary, the Boston Celtics have been fantastic this season, with the best record in the league, 64-18. That scoring prowess is demonstrated by a high 120.6 point per game average, 48.7% field goals, and 38% three-point shots. As a defensive unit, they are more of a wall with 6.6 blocks and 6.8 steals per game which is a proof of their defensive agility and ability to disrupt other players movement on the court.
Cavaliers vs. Celtics Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, May 15, 2024 at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | TD Garden |
| TV: | TNT |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Darius Garland (PG) vs. Jayson Tatum (SF)
Darius Garland is the point guard of the Cavaliers. His presence as lead guard was pivotal in the current campaign garnering averages of 18 points and 6.5 assists over 33.3 minutes per game. His gift for commanding the offense and at the same time keeping a 2.1 assist-to-turnover ratio has proven invaluable, thus far. The Celtics defense is not that easy to break, and thus, satisfactory shooting and defense penetration from Garland is crucial, which, unfortunately, sometimes gives away the ball in unforced situations.
Among top performers, Jayson Tatum on the Celtics has a reputation for being a pillar of consistency and greatness. Playing 35.7 Per each game, Tatum is allotted 26.9 points and 8.1 rebound, which reflects his all-rounded game. Not only can he strike but he added up 1 steal to 0.6 blocks per game, which indeed is a classic tactic of the greatness of his defense. Tatum’s ability to control games in the closing minutes could be the winning factor in the end.
After these two major individuals meet, the on-court mood will be really fascinating. In terms of speed and playmaking, Garland could be a major factor for the game, while Tatum’s production in scoring and shutdown defense would make the game more balanced. Their direct or indirect clashes will be the key, as each one has the capacity to inspire their team and fire them up in the important playoff moments.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
As the betting lines remain undefined, observing the movement of the point spread and moneyline will provide insights closer to game day. The Celtics, likely favorites at home, will attract significant betting interest, but the Cavaliers’ resilience makes them a tempting underdog pick.
Cleveland Cavaliers Betting Trends
The Cavaliers have been a bit off their game lately, winning only two of their last five games both straight up and against the spread. Their road performance against the spread is a reflection of this inconsistency. Also, with the scores going OVER in three of their last five games, wagers may be more interested in an over bet, considering the high-stakes and play-off pressure.
Boston Celtics Betting Trends
On the contrary, the Celtics have performed better, with a 3-2 record in their last five games and a similar spread record. They have a track record of OVERING in their last four games. This shows that their games are usually high scoring. This may continue against the Cavaliers’ fast paced offensive style.
Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Boston Celtics 5/15/24 Betting Picks
Given the current form and the historical performance this season, the Celtics seem poised to take advantage of their home court. Their offensive depth and defensive rigor make them a solid pick, although the Cavaliers’ potential for an upset should not be underestimated, especially with Garland at the helm.
For bettors, considering a play on the OVER might be wise, given both teams’ recent trends. Prop bets on player performances, especially on Tatum’s points and rebounds, could also offer value.
This prediction reflects the balanced offensive threat of the Celtics and the competitive spirit of the Cavaliers. Expect a tightly contested game with Boston ultimately leveraging their home-court advantage to edge closer to a series win in these NBA Semifinals daily picks.
