The Boston Celtics are in some trouble in the Eastern Conference Finals.
They took a 13-point lead near the end of the first half of Game 1 on Wednesday, only to give up 46 points in the third quarter and fall to the Miami Heat, 123-116.
It has resulted in a virtual must-win situation for Boston in Game 2, which will take place on Friday on their home court.
Even worse, Malcolm Brogdon, their main offensive threat off the bench, has a strained right forearm, although he is listed as probable for Game 2.
#NEBHInjuryReport for Game 2 vs Miami:
Malcolm Brogdon (right forearm strain) – PROBABLE
Danilo Gallinari (left knee ACL repair) – OUT— Boston Celtics (@celtics) May 18, 2023
Dating back to last season, the Celtics have had a reputation as a lockdown defensive team, and this year, they finished second in defensive rating during the regular season.
But they have had numerous lapses throughout the playoffs, and they have resulted in the Celtics ranking just ninth in defensive rating.
Their defensive deficiencies were on full display in the third quarter of Wednesday’s game when they gave up 46 points to a Miami team that was last in points per game during the regular season.
Late in the contest, another concern for Boston reared its head.
Although Jayson Tatum scored 30 points on 9-of-17 shooting, he was called for traveling twice in the final minutes of the game, and overall he committed three turnovers in the period.
If the Celtics lose again in Game 2, they will have the unenviable task of having to win two of three games in South Florida against a gritty and resourceful Heat team in order to win the series.
NEXT:
Marcus Smart Has An Honest Admission After Game 1 Loss To Heat