The Celtics claim not to keep an eye on the standings at this point in the season, but they helped themselves significantly with today’s 101-89 win against Miami.
The Celtics increased their hold on third place in the Eastern Conference to two games on the Heat despite an offensively challenged afternoon.
The bench trio of Evan Turner (14 points, nine assists), Marcus Smart (15 points) and Tyler Zeller (12 points) gave the Celtics their biggest boost on a day when Isaiah Thomas and Avery Bradley (12 and nine respectively) were not at their best.
Jared Sullinger (12 points, 12 rebounds) again was a saving grace on the boards as the Celts won their 10th straight home game.