Predicting the Eastern Conference finals: Best player, better coach and who will win?

The first three games of the Eastern Conference finals between the Miami Heat and the Boston Celtics have given us enough comebacks, drama, coaching adjustments and big plays to live up to expectations and then some.

So what comes next?

We asked our NBA forecast panel to assess the series and look ahead: Who's the best player? Which coach do you have more faith in: Erik Spoelstra or Brad Stevens? Who will win the East title? And which East team has the brightest future?

Here is how our panel sees it.

MORE: The Heat are dealing with a different Celtics team now

Who is the best player in the East finals?

Photo finish here, but our panel gives Celtics forward Jayson Tatum the nod over Heat swingman…