Miami Heat Upset Boston Celtics in Game 1: Takeaways and Challenges for Celtics

The Miami Heat pulled off a stunning upset in Game 1 against the Boston Celtics, winning 123-116.

Jimmy Butler led the way for Miami with 35 points, continuing his strong performances against Boston from last year's playoffs.

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Jayson Tatum had a strong first half but struggled in the second, contributing to Boston's late-game offensive struggles.

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Miami's shooting from beyond the arc was impressive, making 16 three-pointers and shooting 51.6% from deep.

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Boston's offensive struggles in close games continued, with their record now at 0-4 in playoff games decided by seven points or less.

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Tatum didn't attempt a field goal in the fourth quarter, relying solely on free throws.

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Erik Spoelstra, the Heat's coach, has a strong track record in Game 1s, making effective moves right from the start.

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Miami's zone defense caused problems for Boston in the second half, as the Celtics struggled to set up effective plays.

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Game 1 is often the best opportunity for an underdog to steal a road game, and the Celtics were caught off guard by Miami's tactics.

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Boston now needs to win a road game to regain control, and their opponents in the previous rounds (the Knicks and the Bucks) failed to do so.

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