Cavs vs. Celtics Preview & Prediction

The Cleveland Cavaliers are on a two game losing streak after falling to the Houston Rockets on Sunday, and are looking to get things turned around at home.

The Boston Celtics have won three of their last four games, but lost to the Golden State Warriors on Sunday.

Projected Starting Lineups

Cleveland Cavaliers (37-24)

G Kyrie Irving – 21.7 ppg, 5.2 apg

G J.R. Smith – 12.4 ppg, 3.3 rpg

F LeBron James – 26.2 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 7.2 apg

F Kevin Love – 17.0 ppg, 10.2 rpg

C Timofey Mozgov– 10.3 ppg, 8.0 rpg

Boston Celtics (23-34)

G Marcus Smart –7.5 ppg, 3.5 apg

G Avery Bradley – 14.0 ppg, 2.9 rpg

F Evan Turner – 8.7 ppg, 5.1 rpg

F Brandon Bass – 9.9 ppg, 4.5 rpg

C Tyler Zeller – 9.9 ppg, 5.6 rpg

What to watch for:

How will Kyrie Irving play?

Irving has missed the last two games with a left shoulder strain, and he's expected to return tonight. Cleveland's offense wasn't the same without him, and it won't be the same if he plays and isn't fully healthy. Boston will be playing inspired basketball as they're trying to fight their way into the playoffs, but having an effective Irving gives the Cavs an advantage.

Can Isaiah Thomas continue to carry the Celtics?

Thomas has provided a huge spark for Boston since arriving at the trade deadline and has them fighting for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. He leads them in points (21.8 per game) even though he comes off the bench. Boston needs him to continue to play well and provide a spark if they're going to win this game.

Prediction: Cavs win 109-98

Boston has been surging of late, but Cleveland needs a win to keep pace with the top teams in the East. With Kyrie Irving back, they should maintain a comfortable lead throughout the game and win easily.

Be sure to follow our Cavs insider @brauf33 on Twitter and follow our Cleveland Cavaliers page for all the latest news!

Back to the Cleveland Cavaliers Newsfeed