This pick was released to clients on May 17, 2023 at 10:12AM ET.
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Cleveland at Boston

May 17, 2017
img8:30 PM Eastern
Premium Pick
1 unit on Boston +175 (moneyline) (risk 1 to return 2.75)
Result:
LOSS

The Boston Celtics aren't getting any respect in their matchup with the Cleveland Cavaliers. The media has all but crowned LeBron and Co. as Eastern Conference champs before a single game has been played. Boston comes off a seven-game series win over the Washington Wizards and now face Cleveland, which hasn't played a game in 10 days. The Celtics are the top seed in the Eastern Conference although you wouldn't know it from those who are assuming there will be a Cavaliers-Warriors final. Boston was 2-1-1 ATS in four meetings this season and the Celtics are underdogs in this game even though they have won their last five playoff home games and they are 9-2 ATS their last 11 games overall. Isaiah Thomas scored 29 points in Game 7 against the Wizards on Sunday and Kelly Olynyk scored a career-high 26 points as the bench outscored its counterparts 48-5. Boston has the edge defensively, allowing 105.1 points per game and a .450 shooting percentage compared to 107.0 and .458 for the Cavaliers. Boston will build on the momentum from the last series and win on adrenaline in Game 1. This dog has some bite, so play the Celtics on the moneyline.

FINAL
1
2
3
4
F
Cleveland Cavaliers img
30
31
31
25
117
Boston Celtics
19
20
36
29
104
consensus consensus
odds odds
 
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