Celtics vs. Raptors in Game 7: Who will prevail to reach the Eastern Conference finals?

The Boston Celtics took an early 2-0 lead in the Eastern Conference semifinals against the defending champions. The Toronto Raptors responded with back-to-back wins, only to fall again in Game 5.

Game 6, however, showcased a thrilling Raptors victory in a double-overtime matchup. Kyle Lowry, Norman Powell and Fred VanVleet led the way in scoring, forcing a Game 7.

Game 7 tips off Friday at 9 p.m. ET on ESPN. The winner will advance to the Eastern Conference finals to face the Miami Heat, who won their series against the Milwaukee Bucks 4-1.

With the Celtics trying to make their third conference finals appearance in four years, and the defending champions trying to get there for the second consecutive season, the series finale should not disappoint.

Here is how our NBA experts expect this game to play out:

Jeff Zillgitt: Obviously, it’s a tied series, but through six (mostly close) games, the Celtics have shot better from the field, better from 3-point range and better from the foul line. Those numbers carry over into Game 7, and the Celtics win the series.

Matt Eppers: Celtics. I like Kemba Walker to bounce back after a bad Game 6, and him being a consistent third scoring option alongside Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown should give Boston enough.

Analis Bailey: The Celtics will take Game 7. Even though the Raptors are relentless and Lowry's Game 6 appearance featured 33 points, they won't overcome the combined efforts of Tatum, Brown, Walker and Marcus Smart. 

Previous Games:

Game 1: Celtics 112, Raptors 94

Game 2: Celtics 102, Raptors 99

Game 3: Raptors 104, Celtics 103

Game 4: Raptors 100, Celtics 93

Game 5: Celtics 111, Raptors 89

Game 6: Raptors 125, Celtics 122 (2OT)

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