NBA Playoffs 2018: 5 keys to Boston Celtics vs. Cleveland Cavaliers matchup

BOSTON, MA - FEBRUARY 11: Lebron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers drives to the basket during a game against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden on February 11, 2018 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Adam Glanzman/Getty Images) /

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BOSTON, MA – MAY 9: Drew Bledsoe addresses the crowd during the game against the Philadelphia 76ers in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Semifinals of the 2018 NBA Playoffs on May 9, 2018 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) /

3. Boston must take advantage of homecourt

The fact that the Cavaliers are entering this series as the favorites makes it easy to forget that it’s the Celtics who have homecourt advantage. That hasn’t mattered to LeBron led teams in the past, but it could loom large in this matchup.

To put it very simply, Boston can’t afford to lose a home game. The clearest path for them to reach the NBA Finals is for them to protect their homecourt four times in this series. They may not have the firepower to win in Cleveland, but that’s not a requirement for them to advance.

Taking advantage of homecourt doesn’t mean they need to come out and play like maniacs every game. Keeping their emotions in check will also be crucial. When LeBron gets rolling it can cause a lot of angst in a visiting arena. Boston’s young players will need to showcase some serious mental toughness not to get caught up in the James’ hype.

Of course, running around like a maniac might also help the Celtics at times. In particular, Marcus Smart seems to thrive on the energy of the Garden crowd. A couple well-timed emotional moments could give Boston a serious lift in their quest to protect home court.

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