Heat vs. Celtics Game 2 Eastern Conference Finals Betting Guide: Can Butler Keep Rolling?

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January 2, 2025 at 09:16 AM

The Miami Heat (-3.5) face the Boston Celtics in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals following their dominant Game 1 victory.

Jimmy Butler led Miami with an exceptional performance, scoring 41 points on 12-of-19 shooting with 9 rebounds, 5 assists, 4 steals, and 3 blocks. Tyler Herro (18 points) and Gabe Vincent (17 points) provided strong support off the bench.

For Boston, Jayson Tatum posted 29 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists, while Jaylen Brown added 24 points and 10 rebounds. Though Robert Williams (18 points, 9 rebounds) and Payton Pritchard (18 points) contributed, the Celtics clearly missed Marcus Smart and Al Horford's defensive presence.

Key Updates:

Marcus Smart (probable) likely returns to defend Butler
Al Horford remains out (health protocols)
Miami enters with home court advantage and momentum

Prediction: Heat to win and cover the -3.5 spread. Butler's aggressive play combined with Miami's home court advantage and momentum should propel them to a 2-0 series lead.