Celtics vs Heat Game 3 Eastern Conference Finals: Betting Analysis and Preview

Celtics vs Heat Game 3 Eastern Conference Finals: Betting Analysis and Preview

By Michael Harrison

December 22, 2024 at 09:55 AM

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

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