MIAMI — The Boston Celtics maintained their winning form against the Miami Heat, securing a 110-106 victory on Sunday, showcasing their resilience in the face of a late rally from the Heat. Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with 26 points, 10 rebounds, and nine assists, narrowly missing a triple-double. Kristaps Porzingis contributed 25 points, while Jaylen Brown and Jrue Holiday added 20 and 15 points, respectively. Boston’s proficiency from beyond the arc was on full display, hitting 16 of 39 3-point attempts.
Reflecting on the Celtics’ recent history with the Heat, Tatum emphasized the competitive nature of their matchups, acknowledging the intensity brought by both teams. Boston’s victory marks their third win against Miami this season, continuing a trend of success against the Heat, including six wins in their last seven meetings.
The Heat, playing without their leading scorer Jimmy Butler due to a family bereavement, saw significant contributions from Tyler Herro, who scored 22 of his 24 points in the second half, and Bam Adebayo, who added 22 points. However, injuries to Terry Rozier and Josh Richardson compounded Miami’s challenges, with both players set for MRI exams following the game.
Miami’s comeback efforts in the third quarter, erasing a 15-point deficit, highlighted the team’s determination. Despite their rally, clutch free throws from Porzingis and Tatum in the final moments secured the win for Boston. Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla praised his team’s execution, particularly in late-game situations.
The physicality of the game was evident, with a notable incident involving Brown and Duncan Robinson, leading to a flagrant foul on Brown and a personal foul on Robinson. The altercation underscored the intensity of the rivalry between the two teams.
As the Celtics prepare to face Brooklyn next, they carry momentum from their recent victories. The Heat, looking to rebound from this loss, will embark on a six-game road trip, starting with Milwaukee. Both teams continue to navigate the challenges of the season, with Boston solidifying its status as a contender and Miami aiming to overcome adversity and injuries.
