New Jersey Nets vs. Boston Celtics – NBA Preview
On Monday night, Boston Celtics arrive at the Prudential Center on Monday to face New Jersey Nets for the fourth time this season. The Celtics overshadowed Nets comprehensively in their last three meetings and the New Jersey will
determine to avoid a clean sweep just before the playoffs.
Boston who have facing a mini-slump off late, climbed to the top of the Eastern Conference after nipping a three game losing streak on Sunday against Milwaukee Bucks’. Ray Allen bounced back by from a season-low in an 89-86 defeat
against Philadelphia 76ers and clinched 17 points in the last game. He said.
"I think playing defense perfectly is our goal. That's what we shoot for, but a team can still score while you're doing that."
New Jersey Nets have been outshined 15 times in the last 16 games with the Celtics. The All-Star guard Deron Williams was procured by the franchise in the next game against San Antonio Spurs after losing from Boston. Playing his
five games as a Net, the veteran guard is averaging 15.8 points and 15.2 assists.
Williams missed the last two games as he became the father of a fourth child and is expected to join the line-up on Monday. He holds a tremendous scoring average of 17.2 points against Boston in the last 9 games, all came in Jazz
uniform. This is going to be Williams first meeting against the visiting line-up, playing for New Jersey and a crucial one as a lot is anticipated from him.
Boston Celtics stands at the first spot in the Eastern Conference with a big number of 47 wins followed by 17 defeats. The team carries an outstanding record at their home court, winning 28 games of 34 home meetings. On the road,
Celtics have won 19 games and lost 11.
In the last 10 meetings, the line-up managed to win 7 games and was overpowered three times. One of the defeats came against Los Angeles Clippers which was a big shock for the team as they are not even a close contender for the
playoffs. The team is struggling with injuries constantly, which is not a good sign for them with playoffs just round the corner. The Big man Shaquille O’Neal is having a hard time with his fitness which is a big setback for Boston. They need to bring the
star champion back in the line-up as playoffs are going to be tough without his mighty presence.
On the other hand, New Jersey Nets are standing at the 12th spot in the same Conference with 21 victories and 43 defeats. The line-up was defeated 16 times in 33 home meetings which doesn’t look like a huge advantage
for New Jersey with that kind of stats against the strength of Boston.
In the last 10, the squad managed to win four consecutive games which is a little above their winning percentage. Playoff run seems like a wild goose chase for them however they are determined for a better finish and looking forward
to avoid a clean sweep.
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