Celtics vs Heat Game 3 Eastern Conference Finals: Betting Analysis and Preview
The Boston Celtics and Miami Heat face off in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals, with the series tied 1-1. The Celtics are 6.5-point favorites at home.
Boston's Outlook:
- Jayson Tatum dominated Game 2 with 27 points on efficient 8-13 shooting
- Marcus Smart's return provided 24 points, 12 assists, and strong defense on Jimmy Butler
- Jaylen Brown added 24 points on 9-17 shooting
- Grant Williams contributed 19 points off the bench
- Full roster now healthy with Al Horford's return
Miami's Outlook:
- Jimmy Butler scored 29 points on 11-18 shooting in Game 2
- Role players struggled to provide offensive support
- Bam Adebayo had minimal impact on both ends
- Multiple key players questionable for Game 3:
- P.J. Tucker
- Max Strus
- Gabe Vincent
- Kyle Lowry (hasn't played in series)
- May need to rely on Duncan Robinson despite defensive liability
Prediction: Celtics to win and cover the spread, powered by:
- Home court advantage at TD Garden
- Full healthy roster
- Strong team basketball
- Potential absence of P.J. Tucker limiting defense on Tatum