The top-seeded Boston Celtics secured a 1-0 lead over the eighth-seeded Miami Heat in their Eastern Conference semifinal series with a dominant Game 1 victory. They now aim to extend their lead to 2-0 in Game 2, scheduled to take place at TD Garden in Boston on Wednesday, April 24, at 7 p.m. ET.
The Celtics enjoyed a stellar regular season, finishing with a league-leading 64-18 record. Their impressive team play and sharpshooting were on full display in Game 1, as they drained 22 three-pointers and received valuable contributions from their bench. Jayson Tatum led the way with a triple-double of 23 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists.
Meanwhile, the Heat have shown resilience after surviving the Eastern Conference Play-In Tournament. Despite the absence of their All-Star forward Jimmy Butler, they remain in contention and will be eager to even the series in Game 2. Bam Adebayo was their leading scorer in Game 1 with 24 points, while Delon Wright came off the bench to hit five three-pointers and contribute 18 points.
The Celtics enter Game 2 as heavy favorites, with a 14.5-point spread. However, the Heat have proven to be a gritty and determined team, and they will not go down without a fight. The outcome of Game 2 could set the tone for the rest of the series, as the Celtics look to take a commanding lead and the Heat aim to stay alive in the playoffs.
