The Celtics won the second half of their back-to-back against the Miami Heat Monday 108-89–right now the eastern conference is just Boston and Cleveland at the top before there’s a huge drop off.

Typically I would consider the New York Knicks in this conversation as they have a good amount of talent and depth to apply pressure late in the season. However, the Knicks have been failing to not only stay consistent, but haven’t been able to play good defense as well. So far this season the Knicks are the second worst team in the east in allowed points, the Celtics are first in the conference. Losing Donte Divincenzo and Julius Randle hurt the Knicks ability to always be able to switch out on defenders. Karl-Anthony Towns’ 25 points and 13 rebounds a game has shown that there is hope for NYC who sit at the fourth spot in the east with a 12-8 record.

The Orlando Magic is right there in the third spot and definitely deserve to get recognition. Although I believe Orlando to a year away from being true contenders, they’re a veteran trade away right before the trade deadline of becoming that. As for the Bucks, Heat, and Pacers, they just don’t have the talent or there are bigger issues within the team.

The Cleveland Cavaliers got their lick back on the Celtics Sunday after losing their first matchup to the C’s in a highly-anticipated matchup. Donovan Mitchell has been what he’s always been; a prolific scorer, but it’s been the pieces surrounding him that has elevated this team. Players like Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen have been able to provide the right amount of defensive help to make up for Mitchell’s downsides while also making consistent buckets when he’s off the floor.

As for the Celtics, things seem to still be going as planned. Kristaps Porzingis was ruled out for the Heat game with a leg injury, Al Hordford didn’t play as well. When their front court is healthy, the Celtics are tough to beat, but seeing that the Cavs just beat the C’s with Porzingis on the floor is worth noting. I still don’t see the Cavs winning in a series of 7 against Boston. Payton Pritchard has continued to strengthen his case for Sixth Man of the Year. The Porzingis injury doesn’t appear to be anything serious, but worth keeping an eye out on as the season progresses.