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The 2024 Eastern Conference finals is set, with a high-octane offensive showdown between the first-seeded Boston Celtics and sixth-seeded Indiana Pacers. Game 1 tips off Tuesday in Boston, giving the Pacers little time to prepare following Sunday's 130-109 Game 7 Round 2 playoff win over the New York Knicks.
Boston's veteran-laden squad, led by superstar forward Jayson Tatum, will look to make its second NBA Finals appearance in three years. Meanwhile, Indiana, spearheaded by star point guard Tyrese Haliburton, will attempt to continue its unexpected postseason run. A Finals berth would mark the franchise's first since 2000.
Given the Celtics' edge in star power and experience, they open the series as heavy favorites (-1500 odds on FanDuel). However, the Pacers' depth and offensive firepower should give them at least a puncher's chance.
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On that note, here are Boston and Indiana's 10 best players entering their East finals showdown.
Top 10 players in Celtics-Pacers 2024 Eastern Conference finals series
#10 Andrew Nembhard
While he's struggled defensively at times, sophomore guard Andrew Nembhard has shot the lights out in his first playoff run. Through 13 appearances, he's shooting a hyper-efficient 57.0% and 48.7% from deep, providing Indiana with consistent complementary scoring and playmaking.
#9 Aaron Nesmith
Pacers forward Aaron Nesmith hasn't connected on his outside shots at a high clip in the postseason. Nevertheless, he is one of the most dependable, high-energy defenders on an Indiana squad that often struggles to get stops. The former Celtic will have his work cut out for him defensively in the East finals, matching up against Boston's star wing duo.
#8 Jrue Holiday
Jrue Holiday's offensive production has waned during his first season with Boston. However, the 33-year-old point guard remains a tenacious perimeter defender and savvy veteran playmaker who can knock down outside shots.
#7 Myles Turner
Pacers center Myles Turner has showcased his two-way impact in this year's playoffs, protecting the rim and operating as Indiana's No. 3 scoring option. He could be in store for a big series against a Celtics team undermanned in the frontcourt.
#6 Derrick White
Celtics shooting guard Derrick White has shot lights out this postseason, with a 48.5/43.5/88.2 shooting split through 10 games. He has also been one of Boston's most impactful defenders, further establishing himself as one of the league's top fringe stars.
#5 Kristaps Porzingis
Celtics big man Kristaps Porzingis has been sidelined due to a right calf strain since midway through Game 4 of Boston's first-round series against the Miami Heat. Per ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, the one-time All-Star is expected to remain out for Games 1 and 2 against Indiana. However, he could return later on in the East finals.
Porzingis has served as Boston's third-leading scorer and top interior defender all season. So, his potential return could drastically impact the series.
#4 Pascal Siakam
Star forward Pascal Siakam continues to make his veteran presence felt in his first postseason run with Indiana. Through 13 contests, the 2019 NBA champion leads the Pacers in scoring (21.1 points per game), providing steady all-around production.
While not a dominant superstar-caliber player, Siakam is once again proving that he can play a key two-way role on a contender.
#3 Jaylen Brown
While not lauded as much as his co-star Jayson Tatum, Celtics star wing Jaylen Brown is one of the league's most reliable No. 2 scoring options. He is shooting a blistering 55.4% through 10 postseason outings, picking up Tatum's slack when necessary.
#2 Tyrese Haliburton
Tyrese Haliburton's offensive playoff production has been up and down. However, the two-time All-Star is still one of the NBA's premier playmakers and 3-point shooters.
Haliburton has spearheaded the Pacers' lethal offense all season, earning All-NBA buzz earlier in the year. So, if he plays aggressively offensively, he could help Indiana pull off an upset victory or two.
#1 Jayson Tatum
Jayson Tatum has struggled mightily with his 3-point shot this postseason, shooting 28.1% through 10 games. Nonetheless, the five-time All-Star remains one of the NBA's preeminent wing scorers and has improved considerably as a rebounder and passer.
Tatum is considered a near-unanimous Top 10 player. So, he should have a prime opportunity to break out of his shooting slump against a fast-paced Indiana team that prioritizes offense over defense.
Also Read: 10 best players in Timberwolves-Mavericks 2024 Western Conference finals matchup ft. Anthony Edwards
