BOSTON — — The rivalry between the Miami Heat and Boston Celtics is as intense as ever, despite the changes both teams have undergone since their playoff showdown last season. In a rematch of the Eastern Conference finals, the Celtics rallied to beat the Heat 119-111 on Friday night, led by Derrick White’s impressive 28-point performance, including five 3-pointers.
Jaylen Brown contributed 27 points and six rebounds, while Jayson Tatum finished with 22 points. White, a key player in this game, showcased his skills in the fourth quarter, scoring 14 points and leading the team. The Celtics, known for relying on Tatum and Brown in recent playoff runs, demonstrated their poise and improved performance late in games, resulting in a 2-0 record for the season with their revamped roster.
In the previous season, Boston and Miami split their four meetings, with Miami prevailing in the playoffs, ultimately reaching the NBA Finals. Friday’s matchup, the first of three this season, reflected the competitive nature of their previous encounters. The game remained close throughout, with neither team holding a lead of more than five points at the end of any quarter. Both teams shot around 50% from the field, resulting in six ties and six lead changes during the game.
Miami’s Tyler Herro, who missed the conference finals due to injury, made an impressive return, scoring 28 points and contributing to Miami’s 16 3-pointers. Bam Adebayo added 27 points and seven rebounds, while Jimmy Butler struggled with 14 points on 3-of-11 shooting. Despite their efforts, the Heat couldn’t match the Celtics’ performance.
In the fourth quarter, Boston gained the upper hand, with White scoring eight consecutive points to give the Celtics a 96-90 lead. Boston extended their lead to 109-102 before Adebayo blocked Brown’s shot, only for an impressive defensive play from White to prevent Butler from dunking the ball. Although Miami attempted a comeback, Boston maintained their lead and secured the victory with a combination of free throws and a clutch 3-pointer by Brown.
Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla commended White’s exceptional plays during the game and recognized the team’s improved strategy and execution. The Celtics paid tribute to the victims of the recent mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine, wearing warmups from their G League affiliate and donning a “Maine” band on their jerseys. The game began with a moment of silence to honor the victims.
Next, the Heat will continue their road trip with a game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, while the Celtics will face the Washington Wizards on Monday.
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