Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Boston Celtics First Round Series Preview and Matchup Breakdown

Bench: Cavs vs. Celtics

To start with, each team’s sixth man doesn’t quite match up with each other with the Cavs’ Tristan Thompson facing Boston point guard Isaiah Thomas. Thompson can dominate the boards, especially on the offensive side, but his offensive potential doesn’t match that of Thomas. Given each has a different area of expertise, we’ll chalk this up as a wash.

However, the Cavaliers have plenty of battle-tested veterans who will come in handy. From Shawn Marion to former Celtic Kendrick Perkins to James Jones to Mike Miller, each knows the drill regarding what it takes to win, which is why their efforts could spell the difference as to whether the Cavs can capture an NBA title.

Throw in a defensive standout like Shumpert and the gritty contributions of Matthew Dellavedova in the backcourt, and the bench, which has struggled this season, will be interesting to watch.

For Boston, backup power forwards Jonas Jerebko and former Buckeye Jarred Sullinger won’t be able to contain Thompson from the inside and Love from the outside. Kelly Olynyk might offer some offense, but his work inside pales to anything the Cavs can offer, while guards Phil Pressey is about the only player to consider at the guard slot.

EDGE: Cavaliers

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