INDEPENDENCE, Ohio -- When the NBA released its schedule for the 2017-18 season on August 14, the Cleveland Cavaliers' season opener against the Boston Celtics was already intriguing as an Eastern Conference finals rematch.
Eight days later, when Cleveland swapped Kyrie Irving to Boston for Jae Crowder, Isaiah Thomas, Ante Zizic and a first-round draft pick, the matchup took on an entirely different meaning.
But Cleveland coach Tyronn Lue refused to place any added significance on Tuesday's challenge against the Celtics.
"It's one game," Lue said after practice Sunday, scoffing at a reporter questioning if the Cavs geared up for the Celtics throughout their entire training camp.