Boston Celtics’ Jayson Tatum made history in Game 1 of the first-round playoff series against the Miami Heat, notching his first career playoff triple-double with 23 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists. The Celtics secured a 114-94 victory over the Heat, matching their physicality despite the absence of star player Jimmy Butler.
Boston had an impressive showing with six players scoring in double figures and tying a franchise playoff record with 22 3-pointers. The team fed off the energy of the TD Garden crowd, seeking redemption after Miami spoiled their NBA finals dreams last season.
The Heat played without Jimmy Butler and Terry Rozier, leading to their second straight loss. Miami struggled with offensive rebounds, as Celtics’ coach Erik Spoelstra admitted that Boston controlled the game from start to finish.
Game 2 is set for Wednesday in Boston, where tempers flared in the final minute as Caleb Martin undercut Tatum, resulting in a scrum and double technical fouls. The Celtics’ bench stepped up with 30 points, despite Luke Kornet being out with a calf injury.
Boston had previously beaten the Heat in all three regular-season meetings, including a dominant 33-point victory in Miami. Tatum and Jaylen Brown led the charge from the opening tip-off, showcasing a strong performance that ultimately led to their Game 1 victory.
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