While Miami’s Game 2 win was impressive, they had a historic shooting night. That’s unlikely to happen in another game this series, much less in three more. That’s a problem that is made worse by the fact that Jimmy Butler is unlikely to play in the series. Butler was the driving force behind the Heat’s Cinderella run last season, so his absence has a major impact.
With Butler out, a lot of pressure is on Tyler Herro to earn the massive contract the Heat gave him. He had just 11 points in Game 1 but broke out for 24 points and 14 assists in Game 2. Miami needs the version of Herro from that win, but consistency has been an issue for the young shooter. If he can stay hot, he and rookie Jamie Jaquez Jr. could help keep this series close.
Boston has far more talent, but they have had issues against weaker opponents. The team has tendency to take their foot off the gas and shift into cruise control against weaker teams. There has been concern that this Achilles heel could haunt them in the playoffs, as it did in Game 2.
The Celtics are finding out something that Bucks fans have known for years: Jrue Holiday is an offensive liability in the playoffs. The veteran is an elite defender, but he is 6-20 (30%) from the field in the first two games of the series. He made 48% of his shots during the season, making the drop-off noticeable.
We still believe Boston wins the series with Butler out, but if Miami can win Game 3 and put Boston on its heels, it could make a massive difference.
