NBA Playoffs Live Game Thread: Brooklyn Nets vs. Boston Celtics, Game One at 8:00 PM EST

Here we go. Thus begins the road to the NBA Finals; with the Brooklyn Nets kicking off the first round on Saturday night against the Boston Celtics at Barclays Center.

Boston, the 7th seed, played their way into the first round by beating the Washington Wizards in the first play-in game, behind a stellar performance from Jayson Tatum.

Tatum dropped 50 points on the Wizards, making up for lost production from Jaylen Brown who is out for the remainder of the season.

On the Brooklyn side of the ball, what more can you say other than: the Big Three are back.

Kyrie Irving, James Harden and Kevin Durant will all suit up in Game One.

Here. We. Go.

Join us after the game on Clubhouse for a live chat at 10:30 PM EST:

WHO: Brooklyn Nets (0-0) vs. Boston Celtics (0-0)

WHEN: 8:00 PM EST

WHERE: ABC (tv), WFAN (radio)

Game Preview.

What assignment will Marcus Smart get? Chances are he’ll be matched up with James Harden. Smart is Boston’s best defender and he’s developed into enough of a threat from three point range that you can’t just leave him alone. But he’ll have to work overtime on defense to slow down the Nets attack. Harden is back from his hamstring and got some regular season reps to shake off some rust. With him back, he’ll do the work of creating great looks for his teammates. Initially, I was going to write that maybe the Nets will monitor his minutes. However, Steve Nash said there’s no restrictions so all systems are a go. Watch out, world.

A lot of responsibility will fall on the shoulders of Tristan Thompson. Thompson was a key contributor on that 2016 Cavs team so he has plenty of experience on the big stage. He hasn’t been all that great this season so he’ll have to control the boards for Brad Stevens and friends.

For more on the Celtics, check out Celtics Blog.