Let’s consider the possibility that the Cleveland Cavaliers can make this series competitive, rather than just falling victim to the same tactics that led to their loss in Tuesday’s Game 1 against the Boston Celtics.

If this unfolds, it won’t happen overnight. No NBA team has ever overcome a 3-0 deficit, so the Cavaliers have just two games to formulate a response.

However, the intricate challenge of defending against the league’s top 3-point shooting team while also thwarting penetration from two elite finishers isn’t something that can be solved in a single game.

The Celtics’ commanding 120-95 win over the Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference semifinal opener underscored this challenge. Despite a slow start from beyond the arc, with just 6 of 22 in the first half (while the Cavs managed eight), Boston still held a 10-point lead. By the end, they had sunk an impressive 18 triples on 46 attempts.

Even with Jayson Tatum’s below-par performance (7-of-19 shooting, 0-of-5 from deep, for 18 points), the Celtics’ offensive strength was evident. Derrick White’s seven 3-pointers contributed significantly to his 25 points. Jaylen Brown’s 32 points, achieved with just four triples, were aided by the open driving lanes created by Boston’s perimeter pressure.

Off the bench, Payton Pritchard scored 16 points primarily through 3-pointers, while Jrue Holiday contributed two triples on his way to 14 points. Cavs coach J.B. Bickerstaff emphasized the need to limit Boston’s 3-point attempts and improve defensive positioning.

Despite the Cavs’ loss, there was no despondency in the locker room. It seemed they were eager to confront the challenges posed by the Celtics firsthand. Max Strus, with playoff experience against Boston, noted similarities in their playing style.

However, the Celtics’ dominance in 3-point shooting presents a formidable challenge. Cleveland must devise a more comprehensive strategy beyond simply limiting Boston’s attempts. Improving their own 3-point shooting is crucial, given their struggles in Game 1 and throughout the series against Orlando.

Donovan Mitchell acknowledged the need to adjust and capitalize on opportunities. Looking back to the 2016 finals, Tristan Thompson highlighted the importance of adaptation and learning from losses, even against formidable opponents like the Warriors.

Ultimately, facing the Celtics today evokes memories of confronting the Warriors back then, not due to playing styles but because of the pressure their offense exerts. Thompson suggested learning from past matchups to adjust strategies effectively, emphasizing the importance of coaching staff input and adaptation over the course of a series.