Playoff Live Thread, ECF Game 6: Cavs vs. Celtics

The Cavs face their second elimination game of the year as they host the Celtics for Game 6. This Celtics team has been a damn site worse on the road, so the Cavs have the odds to extend the series. In addition, given the war of attrition out west, LeBron has to see that he has an opportunity to win a championship this year, which should re-energize him from his game 5 doldrums. As far as the matchups go, it will be interesting to see what the Cavs do with Aaron Baynes in the starting lineup and the post double teams. I’m hoping the counter Baynes with Larry Nance’s energy, but I doubt that will happen, at least in the starting lineup.

If the Cavs are really smart, they’ll heed Ben Werth’s advice, and bench Jeff Green and Jordan Clarkson and replace them with Cedi Osman. Heck, maybe they should just let Ben coach via twitter. I’m betting the odds of that are lower than the odds of Ante Zizic in the starting lineup. Still, the home cooking and the Cavs’ energy should be enough to overcome coach Lue tonight. The Cavs always respond when their backs are against the wall, and I’m expecting it to happen again.

There’s plenty we could say about how to win this game, but I’ll roll with, “stick with who’s playing well.” If Larry Nance has got it going, get him more minutes. If Jose Calderon gets hot, ride him. If Tristan Thompson is nailing three pointers, keep setting him up. (OK, maybe not on that last one). As always, Go Cavs.