The Cleveland Cavaliers have just seven games left in the regular season, and head coach David Blatt is focused on using that time to clinch the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference instead of resting players. So, how will the Cavs close out the regular season?
April 2 vs. Miami Heat
The Heat are one of the few teams that have a leg up on Cleveland, leading the season series 2-1. However, the Cavs have won 16 straight games at home and are determined to make a statement, since they may face Miami in the first round of the playoffs. Cleveland's focus and intensity will be unmatched by an injured Heat team, leading to a comfortable victory.
Prediction: Cavs win 109-98
April 5 vs. Chicago Bulls
Chicago is three games behind the Cavs for the No. 2 seed, meaning this game has the utmost importance to both sides. The Bulls will still be without Derrick Rose, giving Cleveland a decided advantage. With this big game being in Quicken Loans Arena as well, the Cavs should take this one.
Prediction: Cavs win 98-92
April 8 at Milwaukee Bucks
Milwaukee is struggling to hold onto the No. 6 seed in the East, and Cleveland might view this as a throw away game with them being so close to the end of the season. I expect this game to be tight because of that, but the Cavs just have too much talent for the Bucks.
Prediction: Cavs win 97-94
April 10 vs. Boston Celtics
A win in this game would clinch the No. 2 spot for the Cavs if they win the first three games on this list, so that will be enough motivation for them to play one of their best games of the year.
Prediction: Cavs win 116-101
April 12 at Boston Celtics
I would expect Blatt to start resting his best players after clinching the No. 2 seed, and with Boston in a tough fight to just get into the playoffs as the No. 8 seed, the Celtics will play inspired basketball at home to win this game.
Prediction: Celtics win 104-90
April 13 vs. Detroit Pistons
Cleveland's starters will play even less in the second night of a back-to-back, but at this point in the season, Detroit is trying to get as high of a draft pick as possible. Despite the lack of motivation from both sides, the Cavs will win because they have the better bench.
Prediction: Cavs win 94-85
April 15 vs. Washington Wizards
No starters will play in the last game of the season with the No. 2 seed locked up, and Washington may still be fighting for home court in the first round, so their starters will play.
Prediction: Wizards win 105-89
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