Boston Celtics vs. Miami Heat: 3 big observations from the first two games

Boston Celtics Jayson Tatum (David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports)
Boston Celtics Jayson Tatum (David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports)
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Boston Celtics
Boston Celtics Jayson Tatum and Marcus Smart (Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports)

The Boston Celtics have thoroughly outplayed the Miami Heat

The series may be 1-1, but it’s hard not to have watched the first two games of this series in Miami and not have the takeaway that the Celtics have thoroughly outplayed the Heat. Because it’s absolutely true.

Through eight quarters, the Heat has only looked like the better team in one of them – the third quarter of Game 1. Fortunately, winning that one quarter was enough to overwhelm and hold on in Game 1, but this is certainly something of concern for the Heat.

Taking away the third quarter of Game 1, the Celtics have outscored the Heat 220-181. That’s not really the best look for a team that prides itself on defense like the Heat. It’s certainly concerning, especially with the series shifting to Boston.