Celtics Can't Win the Finals?

Written by: Lonnie Zuniga

Faze Fantasy Sports Writer/Founder

The Boston Celtics' strategic offseason moves have culminated in a commanding 3-0 lead in the Eastern Conference Finals against the Indiana Pacers. They concluded the regular season with the NBA's best record at 64-18. Leading the league, their offensive rating stood at 123.2, while their defensive rating ranked third at 111.6, and their net rating topped the charts at 11.6. Additionally, the Celtics finished second overall in three-point shooting percentage at 38.8%.

The Celtics have met all expectations after assembling a robust starting five and a deep bench. The championship is now the final goal for them. However, their seemingly smooth playoff journey has raised doubts about the 17-time World Champions. In the first round, the Celtics defeated a Jimmy Butler-less Miami Heat team 4-1. The second round against the Cleveland Cavaliers was tied at one game each, but Donovan Mitchell's injury in game 3 led to the Celtics winning the series 4-1. Currently, with a 3-0 lead in the Eastern Conference finals against the Pacers, Tyrese Haliburton's injury in game two has been a talking point, as he missed game 3 and is likely out for game 4. The media has highlighted the Celtics' seemingly easy path due to their opponents' injuries. Yet, it's worth noting that the Celtics themselves have faced health issues; Kristaps Porzingis has been sporadic in the lineup, playing only 57 games this season and missing the playoffs since the first round. Al Horford has admirably stepped in for Porzingis, but the Celtics have not been at full strength during the playoffs. Despite the narrative that they can't win close games, the playoffs have shown their ability to secure tight victories.

The Celtics have reached the Eastern Conference finals six times in the last eight seasons, advancing to the NBA Finals once during that period. Jayson Tatum attributes their current success to the timing in their careers, emphasizing it's their moment to win. In the NBA, teams can only face the opponent before them, with no control over the injuries or availability of the opposing team. Every NBA player is among the world's best, whether starting or on the bench, and despite varying talent levels across teams and players, there are no easy games. The Boston Celtics are positioned to make their 23rd NBA Finals appearance, eyeing their 18th championship banner. Meanwhile, the Dallas Mavericks lead 3-0 against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference finals, setting the stage for a potentially thrilling Finals showdown between the Celtics and the Mavericks. Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, two of the league's top players, could make it an epic battle if both teams advance past their conference finals.

And indeed, I believe the Boston Celtics have the potential to clinch the championship this year and secure their 18th banner.