Boston Celtics Indiana Pacers Prediction

Celtics-Pacers Eastern Conference Finals Preview

A Battle of the East's Offensive Juggernauts

The Boston Celtics face the Indiana Pacers in Game 2 of the best-of-7 Eastern Conference Finals on Thursday. The Celtics lead the series 1-0.

Both Boston and Indiana have been offensive juggernauts this season. The Celtics rank first in the NBA in scoring, averaging 120.6 points per game. The Pacers are second, averaging 120.2 points per game.

However, both teams have struggled defensively. The Celtics rank 24th in the NBA in defensive rating, allowing 118.9 points per game. The Pacers are 22nd, allowing 118.1 points per game.

Key Matchups

Some key matchups to watch in the series include: * Jayson Tatum vs. Tyrese Haliburton * Jaylen Brown vs. Andrew Nembhard * Robert Williams III vs. Myles Turner

Tatum and Haliburton are two of the most exciting young players in the NBA. Tatum is a perennial All-Star, while Haliburton has emerged as a breakout star this season.

Brown and Nembhard are both rising stars. Brown is a key part of the Celtics' offensive attack, while Nembhard has been a revelation for the Pacers this season.

Williams and Turner are two of the best defensive players in the NBA. Williams is a rim protector, while Turner is a shot-blocker.

The series is expected to be a close one. The Celtics have the home-court advantage and they have the better record. However, the Pacers have a lot of talent and they are playing with confidence.