It might surprise you to hear this, but the Boston Celtics’ recent spate of excellent play has them moving up — WAY up — some analytical models which attempt to track which teams are going to be standing when the 2022 NBA Playoffs end.
The model in question, FiveThirtyEight’s 2021-22 NBA Predictions, is updated after every game and using their forecast based on RAPTOR player ratings, sees the Celtics in a tie with the Los Angeles Clippers as being the fifth-most likely team to win the NBA title with 7% odds. Yes, you read that correctly. Currently, the Phoenix Suns sit in first place with a 17% shot, the Milwaukee Bucks second with 16%, the Utah Jazz third with 13% odds, and the Miami Heat just ahead of Boston and the Clips with an 8% chance.
The projection model also sees the Celtics with a 15% chance of making the Finals and an 86% shot at securing a place in the postseason.
It can’t be stressed enough that these models can change a lot with just one or two bad losses, but even so, it’s nice to see some analytics that gibe with the level of play the eye test has been recording of late.
This post originally appeared on Celtics Wire. Follow us on Facebook!
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