The Boston Celtics and Toronto Raptors back at it for Game 2 of the Eastern Conference semifinals on Tuesday night. Tip is set for 5:30 p.m.
You'd think based on the outcome of Game 1 — a 112-94 Celtics victory — that Boston would be heavy favorites heading into Game 2.
Guess again.
According to the sportsbook, BetUS.com, the Raptors enter as 1.5-point favorites over the Celtics. The over/under is set 218.5 points.
Celtics vs. Raptors spread: Raptors -1.5
Celtics vs. Raptors over-under: 218.5 points
THE SKINNY
Boston stymied Toronto's transition game in the series opener. Pascal Siakam faced foul trouble in the first quarter while guard Kyle Lowry shot 5 for 12 after a week off recovering from a sprained ankle.
The Celtics got balanced contributions from all 5 starters including a 5-for-9 three-point shooting effort from Marcus Smart. Boston also shut down the Raptors' potent transition offense. Both of those things likely don't happen again in Game 2, but it's also difficult to see how Toronto turns their fortune around substantially. Boston shut Fred VanVleet off defensively at the three-point line, stonewalled Siakam in the post and shut off a second-quarter rush in transition by Serge Ibaka.
Three adjustments to watch for in Game 2 of Celtics-Raptors
Celtics-Raptors Notebook: Gordon Hayward update, Kemba’s knee scare, Tatum 4th in MIP voting
Kemba Walker’s defense, a potential Raptors tweak and more takeaways from Game 1
Robert Williams emerges as x-factor for rising Celtics ceiling
BSJ Game Report: Celtics 112, Raptors 94 – C’s dominate Game 1
PREDICTION
Don't expect any more blowouts in this series like Sunday's series opener. Both teams are simply too good. Game 1 when as well for Boston and as poorly for Toronto in all facets as you can imagine. The Raptors should have a better sense of what Semi Ojeleye and Robert Williams can do off the bench and in turn use Serge Ibaka more to challenge Boston's front court. A better game from Lowry will make it harder on Kemba Walker on both ends. Sorry C's fans but expect Toronto to bounce back in a big way and even the series at a game apiece.
Raptors 110, Celtics 105
