Boston Bounces Back in Game 3 to Take a 2-1 Series Lead
After a disappointing Game 2 effort on Wednesday night, the Celtics bounced back in the perfect way, defeating the Miami Heat 104-84 in Game 3.
Boston's defense was the story of the night, limiting Miami to 84 points on 41.6% shooting.
After Miami knocked down a franchise record 23 three-pointers in Game 2, the Celtics held them to just 9/28 from long range in tonight's contest. The story of the night on the offensive end was balance, as four of the five starters scored at least 16 points.
Trouble-0-7 were joint top scorers in the game, with Jaylen Brown recording 22 points and 8 rebounds on 11/20 shooting and Jayson Tatum adding 22 of his own points to go along with 11 rebounds and 6 assists.
JT put in his best work in the 2nd quarter tonight, scoring 13 of his 22 points in the frame, which allowed the C's to take a 24-point lead into the halftime break.
Kristaps Porzingis (18 points, 5 rebounds) and Derrick White (16 points, 5 rebounds) both had efficient games and made terrific contributions on both ends of the floor.
Following a horrible performance in Game 2, this was a great response from the guys to regain the momentum in the series."Lets go Celtics" chants in Miami, during a Playoff game.
— CelticsMuse (@CelticsMuse) April 28, 2024
Best fans in the league. ☘️ pic.twitter.com/GKndnC2xiq
With Game 4 taking place in 48 hours, the Celtics need to lock in and make it 3-1 heading back home with a chance to close it out.
One amazing stat that needs to be mentioned is that the Celtics are now 10-3 in Miami in their last 13 games.
Make it 11-3 and get back to TD with the lead.
Game 4 will be Monday night in Miami. Go Celtics!
Most Playoff points before 27 in NBA history:
— CelticsMuse (@CelticsMuse) April 28, 2024
1 — Kobe Bryant (2,694)
2 — Lebron James (2,578)
3 — Jayson Tatum (2,309)
Elite Company. pic.twitter.com/c4ksRSMcye
Boston's 84 points allowed tonight were its fewest allowed in a regular season or playoff game since 5/25/22 at Miami (W 93-80).
— Celtics Stats (@celtics_stats) April 28, 2024