When it was announced the Cleveland Cavaliers would be playing against the Boston Celtics in the season opener, it was an intriguing match up because it took fans back to the time when the Celtics and the Cavs faced off in the Eastern Conference Finals.
But when rumors about Kyrie Irving trade came up true and when Irving dissed Cleveland as a 'real sports city', the anticipation mounted for the season opener.
During the Cavs Sunday practice, coach Tyronn Lue wouldn't place any added significance to Tuesday's game.
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"It's one game," Lue said after reporters questioned whether the Cavs geared up for this rematch during the entire training camp, ESPN reported.
"I know both teams want to see each other but at the end of the day, you don't win a championship by winning or losing the first game," he said. "So they're up for the game, they're ready for it, but that's not our main focus is playing Boston."
Cavs fans were looking forward to seeing LeBron James face off against his former teammate, Irving, but his status remains in question after he sprained his left ankle during training camp.