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 – APRIL 5: Boston Celtics center Al Horford (42) is defended by Cleveland Cavaliers forward Kevin Love (0) during the first quarter. The Boston Celtics host the Cleveland Cavaliers at TD Garden in Boston on Apr. 5, 2017. (Photo by Barry Chin/The Boston Globe via Getty Images) /

2. Al Horford vs. Kevin Love

Both Horford and Love like to be called power forwards, but they are both centers in today’s NBA. The matchup at the five will go a long way towards determining which of these teams is bound for the Finals.

Aaron Baynes will likely start most games at center for the Celtics, but it’s Horford who will close them. He was outstanding against Philadelphia. Time and time again he frustrated Joel Embiid’s attempts to establish low-post supremacy. He’ll face a very different challenge against the Cavs.

Kevin Love is not your classic, low-post threat. He much prefers to operate out on the perimeter. Love has largely been transformed into a jump shooter at this point in his career, but he can get it rolling from deep. Horford will need to keep his feet moving to close out hard on Love from three.

On the other end, Horford could be a nightmare match-up for Love. He’s equally adept at punishing Love in the post or abusing him out on the perimeter. It’s not Horford’s personality to take over games offensively, but it might be a good strategy for the Celtics in this series.

Al Horford isn’t likely to blow you away with his numbers in this series, but if he can neutralize Kevin Love it’s a huge win for Boston. This may be the most intriguing matchup on the floor.

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