MIAMI, FLORIDA - APRIL 27: Derrick White #9 of the Boston Celtics drives against Caleb Martin #16 of the Miami Heat during the first quarter in game three of the Eastern Conference First Round Playoffs at Kaseya Center on April 27, 2024 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Megan Briggs/Getty Images/AFP (Photo by Megan Briggs / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / AFP)
Derrick White had a standout performance with 38 points, shooting 15-for-26 overall and 8-for-15 from beyond the arc, leading the Boston Celtics to a comfortable 102-88 victory against the Miami Heat on Monday night. Jayson Tatum also contributed significantly with 20 points and 11 rebounds, helping the Celtics take a commanding 3-1 lead in the Eastern Conference quarterfinal series. Jaylen Brown added 17 points to the winning effort.
White, in his career-best scoring display, credited his coach, Joe Mazzulla, and his teammates for empowering him. He highlighted the confidence instilled by Coach Mazzulla and the support from his teammates, emphasizing the positive atmosphere within the team.
On the opposing side, Bam Adebayo stood out for the Heat with 25 points, 17 rebounds, and five assists, supported by Tyler Herro’s 19 points and Caleb Martin’s 18 points. Despite a strong effort from Miami, particularly in the fourth quarter, they were unable to overcome Boston’s lead.
The victory for Boston, however, came with a potential setback as Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis suffered a calf injury during the game. Although the extent of the injury is yet to be determined, it is reported to not be a significant Achilles tendon injury.
Coach Mazzulla commended his team’s response to playing without Porzingis, noting the collective effort required for success. Despite Miami’s late surge in the game, the Celtics maintained control throughout, leading comfortably heading into the final quarter.
Both teams faced challenges in terms of shooting efficiency during different quarters, with Boston’s defense proving effective in limiting Miami’s scoring opportunities in key moments. Heat coach Erik Spoelstra acknowledged his team’s defensive effort but emphasized the need for improved offensive performance to turn the series around.
