The Boston Celtics managed to stay alive in the Eastern Conference finals by defeating the Miami Heat 116-99 in Game 4. The win reduced the series deficit to 3-1, giving the Celtics hope of a comeback. Jayson Tatum was instrumental in the victory, contributing 34 points. Additionally, five other players from the Celtics reached double figures, displaying a determined performance.
Following the Heat's dominant 128-102 win in Game 3, the Celtics faced the possibility of a 4-0 series sweep. However, their victory in Game 4 puts pressure on Miami for the upcoming clash in Boston on Thursday. While no team in NBA history has ever overcome a 3-0 deficit to win a best-of-seven playoff series, the Celtics are drawing belief from their recent win and aiming to make a comeback.
Tatum commented on the team's mindset, stating that they didn't put too much pressure on themselves despite being down 3-0. They focused on taking it one game at a time, aiming to save their season. Tatum acknowledged that throughout the series, the Celtics had been generating good shots, but sometimes they didn't go in. However, in Game 4, they played with pace and purpose, converting layups, free throws, and jump shots more effectively.
The Miami Heat, who have been seeking their first NBA Championship since 2013, started strongly in Game 4 and held a 22-15 lead in the first quarter. Gabe Vincent's impressive performance had the Miami crowd anticipating another convincing victory. However, the Celtics managed to keep themselves in the game and finished the first half trailing 56-50.
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The turning point came in the third quarter when the Celtics went on a 16-0 run, from which the Heat couldn't recover. Miami struggled against Boston's strong defence and ran out of ideas.
Jimmy Butler scored 29 points for the Heat but struggled from beyond the arc, making only one of four three-point attempts. Overall, Miami made only eight of their 32 three-point attempts. In contrast, the Celtics converted 19 of their 45 three-pointers.
It is worth noting that the Celtics boast a 30-6 record when they make 18 or more three-pointers in a game.
Now the Celtics will look to build on their victory and continue their pursuit of a comeback, hoping to reach the NBA Finals where the Denver Nuggets await.
(With agency inputs)
