With 23 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists, Jayson Tatum recorded his first-ever postseason triple-double. On Sunday, the Boston Celtics defeated the Miami Heat 114–94 to begin their first-round playoff series.
For Boston, which had six players in double digits at the end, Derrick White contributed 20 points and four assists.
The previous season, Miami dashed the Celtics’ hopes of making it to the NBA Finals by winning Game 7 in Boston with a resounding 3-0 lead in the conference finals.
But, Boston took advantage of the enthusiasm in the TD Garden on Sunday, making 22 3-pointers and defeating the Heat 31–14 in the third quarter. In the fourth quarter, the Celtics’ lead increased to 34 points. Miami made a comeback to win
Boston is 38-4 at home, including during the regular season, and has won its last four games against the Heat.
For the second straight game, Miami was led by Bam Adebayo’s 24 points. Jimmy Butler had sustained a right knee injury during the play-in round, so Butler was not available for the match. Terry Rozier missed time as well due to a neck ailment. Adding 17 points was Delon Wright. Jaime Jaquez Jr. scored sixteen points in the end.
(AP)
