The loss to Detroit was painful, but the win last night was huge, and depending on how a few things break this week, the Celtics might… MIGHT… be able to get a little distance between themselves and the rest of the competition. That is… unless Paul George comes back for Indy. Then we might have to adjust our expectations.
Here’s a snapshot of key games this week as five Eastern Conference teams chase two playoff spots:
Today:
Miami at Milwaukee: Milwaukee is currently 3 games up on Boston for the 6th seed. With 12 games left, it’s still possible to get there, but I think we should all be realistic. That’s going to be really tough, and a 7th or 8th seed is more likely. So I’m pulling for Milwaukee.
Tomorrow:
Miami at Boston: A loss to the Bucks and a loss in Boston would drop Miami into a tie with the Celtics.
Brooklyn at Charlotte: The Nets have been a better road team, and Charlotte’s Al Jefferson has been banged up (he sat out the end of last night’s loss), so Brooklyn has a chance. With the win over the Nets last night, I’m not as worried about them as I am about putting space between Boston and Charlotte/Indiana.
Indiana at Washington: The Pacers have lost 6 straight. Washington has lost 3 straight. The Wizards are not falling from 5th to 6th, so I’m not sure if they’re comfortable just resting until the playoffs and getting ready for Chicago/Toronto.
Thursday:
Indiana at Milwaukee: Like the Miami game, I’m not focusing on the 6th seed (even though Toronto would be an easier opponent). HOWEVER, if the Celtics keep winning and Milwaukee keeps losing (currently on a 6 game losing streak), who knows?
Friday:
Charlotte at Washington: Dear Paul Pierce: Ever wish you can help the Celtics make the playoffs again? Well, you can.
Miami at Atlanta: Dear Mike Budenholzer: This is not San Antonio. Please to don’t rest everyone in a game you should win by 30.
Cleveland at Brooklyn: Dear David Blatt: Please note you are cc’d on the note to Coach Budenholzer.
Boston at New York: All of the competition is facing very possible losses. This could be a big day for the Green.
Saturday:
Atlanta at Charlotte: Let’s be honest, with back to back games here late in the season and the top seed all sewn up, there’s little reason for Atlanta to play everyone in both of these games. I’m more comfortable with them resting guys against Charlotte, but this could be an upset special.
Golden State at Milwaukee: Ditto for the Warriors who’ll have an hour and a half of watching what Atlanta did and deciding whether to follow suit. They’re currently 4 games up on Atlanta for the best overall record in the NBA, so there’s a reason to be watching each other.
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