5 things the Cavaliers needs to do to even their series with the Celtics

BOSTON, MA - MAY 13: LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers reacts against the Boston Celtics during the fourth quarter in Game One of the Eastern Conference Finals of the 2018 NBA Playoffs at TD Garden on May 13, 2018 in Boston, Massachusetts. The Boston Celtics defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers 108-83. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

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BOSTON, MA – MAY 13: Kevin Love #0 of the Cleveland Cavaliers handles the ball against the Boston Celtics during Game One of the Eastern Conference Finals of the 2018 NBA Playoffs on May 13, 2018 at the 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 Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images) /

2. Don’t let Kevin Love fade

Kevin Love didn’t have a great game in the opener, but Cleveland can’t afford him to become a shrinking violet as this season progresses. The only way the Cavs can beat the Celtics is for Kevin Love to be a big part of their success.

Love actually led the Cavaliers in scoring with 17 points in Game 1, but he wasn’t terribly efficient. He only shot 5-of-14 from the field and 1-of-4 from 3. It’s not a game he’s going to remember fondly.

He also was dominated on the other end of the floor by Al Horford. The Celtics center finished with 20 points on just 10 shots. Much of his offensive success game with Love trying to guard him.

Love can’t afford to get discouraged and become more conservative with his play. In fact, just the opposite needs to occur. Love needs to become more aggressive on both ends of the court. He might not be able to stop Horford, but he can prevent him from having another ultra-efficient game. Limiting him to under 50 percent from the field would be a nice place to start.

Of course, he really needs to make his presence felt on the offense end. Lue and his teammates should work hard to get him some easy shots to start the game. A big night from Love would go a long way towards helping Cleveland even the series.

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