Everyone knew that the Boston Celtics would be more aggressive in Game 2. Since January, the Celtics have proven they can bounce back after tough losses. They also got healthier with the returns of Marcus Smart and Al Horford. We immediately saw the impact of the returned players from tip-off. After trailing by double-digits early, Boston dominated the game the rest of the way. The Miami Heat tried to make a run in the third period, but the Celtics held them off. After the 127-102 blowout, the series is now tied 1-1 heading into Game 3. Here are my takeaways from Miami’s Thursday loss to Boston.
Jimmy Still Carrying the Offensive Load
As he has done all postseason, Jimmy Butler continued to be the Heat’s main scorer. He started off passive early in the game, but became more aggressive the rest of the way. It was especially evident in the third period, where he relentlessly attacked the basket. He scored over 25 in the game, but it was not enough. Outside of Gabe Vincent, Butler wasn’t getting much help from his teammates. Tyler Herro was not as impactful offensively throughout the game. The three-pointers weren’t falling as much for the shooters, either. Going forward, Butler is going to need more help from his teammates.
Adebayo Not Involved Offensively
Against the Celtics two years ago, we saw complete performances from Bam Adebayo. He was assertive on both ends of the floor. This series, however, has been vastly different. Offensively, he has not been as aggressive. He is looking to pass more than taking his own shot, and the Celtics are playing him for the pass, too. They are also more than comfortable putting their smaller defenders on him. This makes it even harder for Miami’s offense. Adebayo has to be assertive offensively and his teammates also need to do a better job of putting him in position to score, as well. The Celtics are too good defensively for Miami to be playing four-on-five. Adebayo finished the night with six points, nine rebounds, and two assists.
PJ Goes Down
Things got worse in the third period when P.J. Tucker exited the game with a left knee contusion and did not return. Losing Kyle Lowry is one thing, but losing Tucker, too, is tough. The 37-year-old veteran does a lot for Miami on both ends of the floor. He guards the best player on the opposing team and holds his own against bigger players in the post. Offensively, he’s often the release valve for Miami when the offense gets stuck. Tucker’s floaters and corner three-pointers have been helpful at times. If Miami loses him to injury, the task gets even more difficult. It’s hard to find a player who can do similar things. Should he miss time, it’s going to open up more minutes for Caleb Martin and possibly Markieff Morris. Tucker will undergo an MRI today to determine the severity of his injury.
We Got a Series
Even before the series began, this was always going to be a tough one. Now tied 1-1, we have a series. Though the Heat won Game 1, we knew the Celtics would make adjustments. And they did by stealing Game 2 in Miami. Now it’s time for Miami to do the same and steal one back in Boston. Each team has been known to be inconsistent on offense. We saw it from the Celtics in Game 1 and the Heat did it in Game 2. With the series headed to Boston for Game 3, we will see how Miami responds.
Next Up: Game 3 on Saturday in Boston. Game tips off at 8:30pm EDT.
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