Miami Heat vs
Boston CelticsPredictions & Preview

Boston Celtics Favored Over Miami Heat in Game One of Eastern Conference Playoffs, 1-seed vs 8-seed matchup on ABC

The Eastern Conference playoffs kick off with the Miami Heat facing the Boston Celtics in Game One of their series. Miami secured the 8-seed by defeating the Chicago Bulls in the Play-In Tournament. The Celtics, as the 1-seed, dominated the conference with a 64-18 record. They have won all three matchups against Miami this season. The game will take place at 1:00 EST in Boston and will be televised on ABC, with the Celtics opening as strong -14 favorites.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Heat +700 | Celtics -1115
• Spread: Heat +14 (-110) | Celtics -14 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 209.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Boston will win straight-up is 92%.

Miami vs Boston Stats

Miami Heat

The Miami Heat defeated the Bulls in the final Play-In Game with standout performances from Tyler Herro and Jaime Jaquez Jr., who stepped up in the absence of injured players Jimmy Butler and Terry Rozier. Despite injuries to key players, the Heat will need to rely on their current roster to take on top teams in the East. Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo will be key players to watch, with Herro averaging 20.8 PPG and Adebayo recently named to Team USA for the Olympics. The team ranks 26th in offense and 3rd in defense, with a power ranking of 6. When looking for better odds, consider using the Bonus Code for BetMGM, "WAWBET", for a welcome offer up to $1,500 in bonus bets.

Boston Celtics Analysis

The Boston Celtics have secured the league's best record, boasting a comfortable lead over their closest competitors in both the East and West. With a talented starting lineup that excels in both offensive and defensive efficiency, the Celtics are considered strong contenders to reach the NBA Finals. Led by top players such as Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, they have demonstrated success on both ends of the court. Injuries are currently not a concern for the team. Additionally, Boston has shown impressive shooting percentages and rebounding numbers that contribute to their high power ranking and offensive prowess. As they embark on their playoff journey starting against Miami, the Celtics remain focused on their goal of championship contention.

Boston Celtics primed for victory in Game One against Miami Heat, who face significant setbacks without Butler and potential absence of Rozier

The Boston Celtics are entering Game One of the series fully healthy and focused on establishing their dominance over the Miami Heat. The absence of Jimmy Butler and the potential absence of Terry Rozier will be significant setbacks for Miami, as Butler serves as their leader, top scorer, and best perimeter defender. This puts Miami at a disadvantage, especially when facing Boston's formidable lineup of Tatum and Brown on the wing. With a season series sweep against Miami, including a commanding victory in January, Boston is poised for success. While Miami was able to defeat Chicago, their lineup adjustments may not yield the same results against the Celtics, who are considered one of the top teams in the NBA. Boston is determined to maintain their momentum and demonstrate their superiority to the league. It is recommended to take Boston to cover in this matchup.

Sources: [ 1 ] [ 2 ] [ 4 ]