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NBA Playoffs: Boston Celtics vs Toronto Raptors Game 7 Injury Updates, Lineup and Predictions

Published 09/11/2020, 7:00 PM EDT

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So, Game 7. An all or nothing moment which we all look forward to. The Toronto Raptors had us feel that their chances of making it past this round were pretty bleak when they were behind the Boston Celtics 2-0. However, they have managed to stave off elimination and have led us to a 3-3 tie. This will be a battle of whose hunger for the Eastern Conference Finals surpasses the other. Both teams are filled with talent to the brim, making this matchup one to latch on. Let’s see what game 7 looks like.

Boston Celtics injury update and lineup predictions

Boston will be aiming to get their hands on their third appearance in the conference finals. The Celtics have shown far more potential this round than the Raptors but not being able to stay consistent is what has led the series to a tie. They were in a 2-0 lead and had so many opportunities to win game 6 but look at where we are.

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Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown have stood out for the Celtics and helped them get through this far. It was Kemba Walker’s performance that has been disappointing and if he played anywhere near what he’s capable of, the Raptors wouldn’t have seen the face of game 7. Nevertheless, they need to focus on their incredible defense like they have done so far and put Marcus Smart on Kyle Lowry. This helps to slow down the offense to a great level. Gordon Hayward (ankle) is expected to be out until at least September 16. Javonte Green and Vincent Poirier are listed as game-time decisions yet again.

Thus, the predicted lineup would be Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Kemba Walker, Marcus Smart, and Daniel Theis.

Toronto Raptors injury update and lineup predictions

When the defending champions lost Kawhi Leonard, we didn’t expect much from them. In spite of that, here they are fighting to get to the conference finals. Kyle Lowry is the one who has led the way for the team and scored a whopping 33 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists in the previous game.

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What we really need at this moment is for Pascal Siakam to find his rhythm. There will be no better timing than this because he has really struggled with the Celtics’ wing defenders. Kyle Lowry’s performance can’t be the only thing the Raptors rely on. Other players need to buck up and strengthen the offense desperately. Oshae Brisset and Patrick McCaw are both probable for this game as they struggle with knee injuries.

The predicted lineup would be Kyle Lowry, Fred VanVleet, OG Anunoby, Pascal Siakam, and Marc Gasol.

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Game predictions

This matchup is pretty even so it is tough to lean on one side. But, the Celtics have been a much better team this series and they have given a very hard time to the Raptors. The Raptors may have championship experience but the chances of them winning are less.

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Written by:

Yashima Bhatia

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Yashima Bhatia is an NBA writer for EssentiallySports who specialises in providing nuanced predictions and updates for matches. She has a Bachelor's degree in journalism and mass communication. Yashima's love for playing the game came up at a young age, when the excitement of the games coupled with the intensity of the Playoffs had her hooked.
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