Pritchard said. “I’m gonna come with the same mentality.” Advertisement For most others who care about the Celtics, the Cavaliers or basketball in general, the showdown shouldn’t feel like just another game.

And there is added significance to Tuesday’s game between the Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers because the Cavaliers are undefeated, winning their first 15 games. It’s the fourth time in NBA history that a team has won at least 15 games and played a defending champion.

During a recent post-practice interview, veteran guard Jrue Holiday expressed his excitement at having Porzingis back on the floor. Holiday and Porzingis both joined the Celtics roster during the 2023 offseason and played significant roles in the team's charge toward a championship.