Cavs vs. Celtics: preview, odds, injury report, TV

As the Cavaliers prepare to host the Boston Celtics at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on Sunday night, they must make a crucial decision. Tipoff is set for 6 p.m. Eastern on NBA TV, and this matchup continues to carry weight beyond the regular season.

Reeling from back-to-back losses to the Atlanta Hawks, Cleveland has only three blemishes on their 17-3 record. One of the three came at the hands of these Celtics, who snapped Cleveland’s 15-0 start.

This matchup serves as a proving ground for the Cavs, both for their most recent losses and last year’s playoff exit when Boston eliminated Cleveland in the Eastern Conference semifinals. The Celtics will likely have Kristaps Porziņģis back in the fold, adding a new dimension to an offense already fueled by Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown.

For the Cavaliers, who have shown lapses defensively, particularly with overhelping rotations, this game presents a high-stakes opportunity to prove they can adjust and respond. Standout efforts from Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley will be critical to anchoring the paint, while Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland must outduel Boston’s perimeter firepower. Missing Dean Wade, their top wing defender, for the sixth straight game due to an ankle injury only adds to the challenge.

Cleveland’s defense must withstand Boston’s relentless ball movement and utilize their size advantage inside to dictate the game.

A victory would not only showcase the Cavs’ ability to adapt and learn from adversity but also reestablish their standing as a legitimate contender in the Eastern Conference. Sunday’s showdown has all the makings of a statement game.