Banner No. 19 still looks like it's in the cards, but there are two serious threats, and one honorable mention, that could stand in Boston's way, Chad Finn writes.

The two best teams in the Eastern Conference square off on Friday night in what could be a preview of the Eastern Conference Finals.

Kendrick Perkins passionately defended the Boston Celtics and called them “the most disrespected champions in NBA history.”

This affiliate content is not influenced by our advertising relationships, but AP and Data Skrive might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content.

That player is Nique Clifford. Clifford is a versatile player from Colorado State who has good size at the wing position. He's 6'6 and can play small forward or small-ball power forward. Clifford is the only player in the country who is averaging a double-double. He is someone that could help them win if he falls to the end of the first-round.