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Boston Celtics v. Milwaukee Bucks October 18th game predictions

By Logan Jakubajtys

CLEVELAND, OH - OCTOBER 17: Head coach Brad Stevens of the Boston Celtics yells from the bench while playing the Cleveland Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena on October 17, 2017 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OH - OCTOBER 17: Head coach Brad Stevens of the Boston Celtics yells from the bench while playing the Cleveland Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena on October 17, 2017 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /
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The Boston Celtics dropped their season opener to the Cavaliers 102-99 on Tuesday, but they have a quick turnaround with the home opener on Wednesday.

No Gordon Hayward, no problem? Let’s hope that’s the case for the Boston Celtics. They nearly came back to win the season opener against the Cavaliers, and now the Milwaukee Bucks will come to Boston for the Celtics home opener.

The starting lineup is in question in Hayward’s absence, but I think Marcus Smart will be the only change or addition. He’ll have to step up, especially defensively, with Hayward down.

Boston will be looking for their first W in this new era of basketball, and young players like Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum, and Terry Rozier will have to play to the best of their abilities to earn it. Sure, Kyrie and Al will steal lead the team, but the rest need to contribute.

Here’s how I see game 2 shaking out for Boston and Milwaukee.

Kyrie Irving: 28 points, 11 assists, 4 rebounds

With Gordon Hayward out, Kyrie Irving is clearly the Celtics’ top offensive weapon. He knows it just as much as the fans do, and I think he wants to show it during the home opener. Kyrie should be able to record his second double-double of the season with 28 points and 11 assists. This could become Irving’s new normal until Hayward is able to return.

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Marcus Smart: 20 points, 5 assists, 5 rebounds

Marcus Smart had a terrible start when he entered the game after Hayward’s injury on Tuesday. He began 0-9 from the field, but he eventually knocked in 5 buckets for 12 points. I think Smart will have a much better game against Milwaukee, and he may hit a few big 3’s as Boston starts to build their lead in the second half.

Jayson Tatum: 16 points, 7 assists, 9 rebounds

After a double-double in his NBA debut, Jayson Tatum will fall just short of one in his second game. Still, he’ll be off to a tremendous start to his career with 16 points, 7 assists, and 9 rebounds. Tatum wasn’t really in the Rookie of the Year conversation to begin the year, but he will be after this week.

Aron Baynes: 8 points, 10 rebounds

The Celtics need help on the glass, and that’s the main reason why they got Aron Baynes. On Wednesday night I think we’ll see him on the court a bit more, and he has the ability to grab 10 rebounds. Look for it to happen at home in the Garden.

Next: Smart will have to replace Hayward

Game Prediction: Celtics 106, Bucks 96

Honestly, I think the Celtics will struggle to begin this game. The offense was running so smoothly in the preseason with Gordon Hayward, and it will take them some time to adjust to his absence. Boston is clearly the better team here though, and they’ll find a way to breakout for a double-digit win. Kyrie Irving is going to take over the 4th quarter, much like Isaiah Thomas did in green last season.

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