Game 1 ended 117-113 for Boston, but it wasn't as close as

this result might suggest. The Celtics opened up a 20-point

lead after a strong third quarter and still lead by 13 with less

than two minutes to go. From a betting standpoint, it was

frustrating that Cleveland was allowed to appear as a +5.5

underdog after his death through the back door, which can

happen in the NBA. But Boston held on to winning the game

and it was always likely as they played with double

vengeance after Cleveland  won both preseason meetings.

Jayson Tatum, Al Horford and Robert Williams III all

recorded double-doubles for the Celtics with a dominant

basketball performance while the Cavaliers had a more

lonely performance. Donovan Mitchell, who lost 44 points in

44 minutes.  Williams has since been  out with a long-term

injury, while Mitchell was forced off the field with an injury in