The Boston Celtics are facing elimination after suffering a devastating loss to the Miami Heat in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals. The Heat dominated the game, leading by 22 points in the first half and closing out with a 128-102 victory. Boston coach Joe Mazzulla shouldered the blame for the loss, admitting he failed to have his team ready for the biggest game of the season. Mazzulla’s players defended him, but there’s no denying that the Celtics laid an egg. They find themselves in an 0-3 hole against the eighth-seeded Heat.
Boston has been good away from home over the past two postseasons, posting a 12-6 record compared to going 10-11 at home. However, their history of road success didn’t follow them south as the Heat dominated the run of play from early on. Boston struggled to make their shots and Miami shot exceptionally well, finishing with a 57% overall shooting and a 54% from 3-point range. The Celtics now face a daunting task to turn the series around and prevent the Heat from advancing.
Despite the odds against them, Boston’s players remain hopeful. Al Horford acknowledged their tough position but stated they have some pride, and they need to bounce back and be better in Game 4. The Celtics have relied on their 3-point shooting all season, but they have struggled to make them in this series. Miami has capitalized on their failures and is currently leading the series with a 3-0 record. Boston needs to regroup and come up with a solid game plan to avoid being swept by the Heat.
