Box Score: Celtics 86, Cavaliers 83

Tough loss. The Cavaliers fell behind early as their first quarter defense continues to plague them. But true to their nature, the Cavaliers fought back and took a lead into the 4th quarter. Unfortunately, the Cavs made too many mental errors down the stretch and the Celtics capitalized. The Cavaliers had a chance, down 3 with 3 seconds left. On a nice inbound play the Cavaliers got Anthony Parker a pretty good look for a deep three, but his shot went off the front of the rim and the Celtics came away with the win.

Kyrie Irving was simply stellar once again in the 2nd half, Tristan Thompson chipped in with a double-double, and Ramon Sessions scored 13 points off the bench. But they just didn’t get much help. Parker had 1 point, Semih Erden had 4, and Antawn Jamison had 8. You can’t have 3 of your starters give you 13 points and expect to win many games.

Whether you think the Cavaliers should try for the playoffs or not, the team has rightfully said they want to make a run at it. To be a playoff team, though, you have to win these kind of games, especially against one of the teams you’re chasing. Chalk it up to another lesson learned.

Oh, and props to Manny Harris for pulling off the Club Tril.

Boston