3 underrated teams the Boston Celtics could face in the postseason

Boston Celtics underrated team #3: Miami Heat

Sure, the Miami Heat are the first seed in the Eastern Conference, but are they really properly rated? When talking about the East contenders, names such as Philadelphia, Milwaukee, and even a fully healthy Brooklyn show up before Miami, despite their place in the standings.

Simply put, Miami does not have the same amount of star power compared to their contemporaries, with names such as Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kevin Durant, Joel Embiid, and James Harden towering over Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo.

However, Butler and Bam have proven themselves once again this season as one of the league’s best duos, being able to excel on both ends of the court at an above average level. Adebayo is having a borderline defensive player of the year season, while improving his production in Miami’s offensive system.

Butler has regressed in some areas, especially seen in their short-lived 2021 playoff experience, but still has the potential to go back to his bubble self. Butler and Adebayo surrounded by shooters such as Tyler Herro and Duncan Robinson, along with Kyle Lowry’s ability to run the offense, is one of the most deadly lineups in the league.

Their clear weakness lies in the defensive shortcomings of individual players (mainly Robinson), which can be picked on over and over again in a playoff series. However, they have enough plus defenders to replace the Michigan product if need be.

Additionally, they arguably have the best coach in the league in Erik Spoelstra, a proven playoff coach in terms of both accomplishments and tactics. It’s silly to heavily favor any team in the East over the Miami Heat considering their track record.