Can the Celtics Topple the Next NBA Dynasty?

When the Minnesota Timberwolves took a 2-0 series lead over the Denver Nuggets, Boston Celtics fans rejoiced, thinking the defending champions, who had defeated the Celtics twice this season, were heading out of the playoffs.

However, a week later, the Nuggets turned the series around, leading 3-2, and now Celtics fans are anxious. With the Nuggets, led by star Nikola Jokić, back in form, the pressing question is: Can the Celtics dethrone them?

The Celtics have been strong this postseason, with a 7-2 record heading into Wednesday night’s game. Despite some shaky performances, they’ve handled their matchups well, which could pave an easier path to the NBA Finals.

One key advantage the Celtics may have over the Nuggets is their potentially shorter and less grueling path to the Finals.

nothing better than playoff games on the parquet ☘️ pic.twitter.com/DONOvnzEfX

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) May 15, 2024

Looking ahead to a possible showdown with the Nuggets, it’s hard for Celtics fans to feel optimistic. The Nuggets would boast the best player in Jokić, the top duo in Jokić and Jamal Murray, the best coach in Michael Malone, and the experience of a championship win.

Typically, the team with the best player wins the series, putting the Celtics at a disadvantage. Some argue the Celtics might not even have the second-best player between the two teams.

Nikola Jokic took the Timberwolves to school tonight

Just watch 🤯

(🎥 @Digits3App ) pic.twitter.com/y7lUOCKwFv

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) May 15, 2024

For the Celtics to have a chance at defeating the Nuggets, they must exhibit a killer instinct that has been missing in the Jayson Tatum/Jaylen Brown era. The Celtics have yet to prove they can wrest the title from a seasoned champion team.

There are serious concerns about whether the Celtics can match the Nuggets’ toughness and intelligence over a seven-game series.

Ultimately, overcoming the Nuggets might be the toughest challenge Tatum and Brown have ever faced.