What To Expect In Second Cleveland Cavaliers-Boston Celtics Matchup

Cleveland looks to snap Boston's 18-game regular-season home game winning streak in tonight's contest.

Two nights ago, the Cleveland Cavaliers fell to the Boston Celtics in a 120-113 defeat at TD Garden in Boston.

Tonight, the two teams will run it back in the same building, with the Cavaliers seeking a different result.

Here are four things to expect in the second matchup between Cleveland and Boston this season.

1. Another Big Garland Game

Cavaliers point guard Darius Garland is currently in the midst of a strong scoring stretch.

In Cleveland’s last five contests, he is averaging 25.6 points per game, while shooting 48.0% from the field and 34.4% from three-point range.

Garland had 26 points and a game-high seven assists against the Celtics this past Tuesday night.

Dec 12, 2023; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland (10) drives the ball against Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) in the second quarter at TD Garden / © David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

2. More Cleveland Free Throws

In the last meeting between these two teams, the Wine and Gold were held to just 6-for-9 (66.7%) from the free-throw line. These were the second-fewest free throws made and attempted in a game by the Cavaliers this season.

For perspective, Cleveland is averaging 16.4 free throws made on 21.3 attempts per game this season.

3. A Boston Three-Point Barrage

Boston ranks top-two in the NBA in three-pointers made (15.7, second) and attempted (43.0, first) per game.

The Celtics certainly lived up to these billings this past Tuesday night, as they shot 18-for-44 (40.9%) from three-point range against the Cavaliers.

4. Herculean Home-Court Advantage

After defeating Cleveland two nights ago, Boston maintained its status as having the only undefeated home record in the NBA.

Dating back to last season, the Celtics have won their last 18 regular-season home games.