Celtics Dominate Game 4, Take 3-1 Series Lead Over Heat

Celtics Dominate Game 4, Take 3-1 Series Lead Over Heat...

The Boston Celtics defeated the Miami Heat 112-94 in Game 4 of their first-round playoff series Thursday night at TD Garden. The win gives Boston a commanding 3-1 series lead, putting them one victory away from advancing to the Eastern Conference semifinals.

Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with 28 points, while Jaylen Brown added 22. Miami struggled offensively, shooting just 41% from the field as Jimmy Butler was held to 19 points. The game was never close after Boston opened the second half with a 15-2 run.

This matchup is trending nationally as the Celtics are now heavy favorites to eliminate the Heat, who eliminated Boston in last year's Eastern Conference Finals. Fans are particularly engaged after Miami's surprising Game 2 victory had briefly tied the series.

The Celtics can close out the series in Game 5 on Saturday in Miami. A potential second-round matchup against either the Cleveland Cavaliers or Orlando Magic awaits the winner. Boston hasn't reached the NBA Finals since 2022, when they lost to Golden State.

Thursday's decisive win sparked celebrations across New England, with bars in Boston packed with fans wearing green. The team's strong performance comes after midseason roster upgrades that have solidified their championship credentials.

Miami now faces elimination for the first time in the Erik Spoelstra era without having homecourt advantage in a potential Game 7. The Heat will need significantly better shooting performances from role players to extend the series beyond Saturday.