Boston Celtics: 3 keys to victory vs the Miami Heat in Game 6

Boston Celtics key to victory No. 1) Theis must continue his defensive excellence

All season long, the buzz has largely been about how the Boston Celtics should seriously consider upgrading at their center position. That said, their current starter in Daniel Theis has quietly managed to put up quite a solid 2019-20 campaign, averaging 9.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game on 57 percent shooting from the floor and 33 percent shooting from deep.

Throughout the year, it has seemed that when the German big is playing his defensive-oriented/ hustle & bustle brand of basketball, the Cs have tended to only benefit from it.

This sentiment rang true during their latest victory over this Heat squad.

In Game 5, Theis played one of his best outings of the postseason, recording 15 points, 13 rebounds, and three blocks on 60 percent shooting from the floor. His 100 defensive rating trailed only Kemba Walker and, behind his excellent efforts on the less glamorous side of the court, Heat star Bam Adebayo saw himself struggling mightily, and even deemed his lackadaisical performance as the main reason for his team’s loss.

"“It’s not my teammates’ fault, it’s not my coaches’ fault. It’s me. I missed too many shots I should have made. Put that one on me.”"

While his efforts actually were not as bad as he made them out to be — recorded 13 points, eight rebounds, eight assists on 5-for-11 shooting –, it’s evident that Theis’ defense was seen as bothersome for Adebayo.

If the Boston Celtics wish to win this exhibition and force yet another Game 7, they’ll need all of their guys playing at their best on both ends of the floor.

This includes the likes of a player slotted in at their “weakest” position.