Miami (dpa) – The third quarter was decisive, in which Miami made a 17-point lead from an eight-point deficit. Germany international Daniel Theis scored eight points for Boston in almost 20 minutes of play.
In the repeat of the Conference Finals two years ago, the Celtics had to start without two regular players. Al Horford is in the league’s Corona protocol, Marcus Smart injured his foot in the decisive game seven of the quarterfinal series against defending champion Milwaukee Bucks. Despite this, the Celtics led at the break after a strong first half.
The second half then began with a 10:1 run by the Heat. For seven minutes, Boston didn’t score from the field. Theis had one of the Celtics’ best moments with a strong block against Dewayne Dedmon. In contrast, star player Jayson Tatum (29 points) allowed himself six turnovers in this quarter alone. In the final quarter, Boston could no longer come close, also because Butler in particular always had an answer ready, both offensively and defensively.
Game two of the best-of-seven series will take place again in Miami on Friday night. In the final of the Western Conference, starting Wednesday evening (local time), the Golden State Warriors will meet the Dallas Mavericks with German international Maxi Kleber.
