The Celtics‘ season has been an absolute cinema so far. From blitzing through the early season amidst a financial crisis to dipping to mediocrity mid-season, to overturning a 26-point deficit against the 76ers to win 118-110 a few nights ago- all this season makes me munching through an overpriced popcorn bucket and enjoying the show. Up next they go against the big dogs for round three- the only team (arguably) better than them in the East this season- table topping Cavs.

The defending champions don’t look to be getting their foot off the gas anytime soon- and are eyeing to bite the heads of the Cleveland-based team to establish their dominance in the Eastern Conference. But for this, they’ll need their main men to rise to the occasion, particularly Jayson Tatum and Kristaps Porzingis. So the big question is this- are they available for the potential game-of-the-season contender?

Celtics injury report and predicted lineup

Jayson Tatum has been too hot to handle this season. You can imagine what’s like being the spearhead of the best offense in the league- and with the form he’s in right now, the Cavs better be careful. He was their knight in shining armor during the comeback dub against the 76ers, managing to get a double-double with 35 points and 11 assists, while also recording 7 rebounds. Although he was listed as ‘questionable’ with a right knee tendinopathy for the Bulls game, he managed to overcome- and dominate with 16 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists. Despite all that, the Green Mamba is confirmed to be playing against the Cavs.

Kristaps Porziņģis has been having a season to remember. Averaging 19.2 PPG and 7.1 RPG- which includes his double-double (34 points and 11 assists) against the Bulls, he’s one to look out for against the Cavs. Injuries have been a bit of a thorn in his side as recent- as he underwent an ankle surgery post the championship final in June. The Unicorn stands tall though- as he’s been more a bulldozer than a unicorn since his return- and he’s expected to light up the paint against their clash against the Cavs.

Unfortunately for the Greens, the grass ain’t greener on the other side. While they do have the likes of Porzingis and Tatum in their squad, JD Davison and Anton Watson are set to be sidelined due to injuries themselves. They’ll be hopeful that the rest of the Massachusetts reps can get their team over the line.

This is predicted to be their lineup for the game:

You can bet that all the States’ TVs at 7:30 will be tuned into the action at the Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse. This isn’t one to miss- especially when you have the Association’s best looking to finesse each other like they have nothing to lose. Will Ohio’s finest strengthen their grip on the summit of the East, or will the Greens run through the wine-colored wall with their star men, Tatum Porzingis, at the wheel?