Miami was in a rhythm early going on an 8-3 run to start the game. Spo’s decision to go back to the older rotations has been successful so far, with the team looking a lot more comfortable than they did in the 4 game losing streak. Miami’s defense was also solid as they disrupted the Celtics to cause turnovers and throw off their rhythm. Still, they didn’t fall far behind with Jaylen Brown carrying the team scoring their first 11 points.
The Heat and Celtics alternated leads often in a close first quarter, but it was the Celtics who’d take a six-point lead into the second on a small run built on transition buckets and Jayson Tatum.