Boston Celtics: 3 keys to winning Game 2 against Miami

Boston Celtics key to victory No. 3) Role players must step up

When Derrick White was acquired from the San Antonio Spurs at the 2022 NBA Trade Deadline, there was much excitement amongst Boston Celtics fans. Throughout his career, White has built a reputation as being an above-average defender and someone who can score fifteen points a night.

While his defense has continued to shine, number nine’s shooting has yet to come around. Game 1 in Miami served as a major disappointment.

White drew the start playing 28 minutes, shooting 1-of-4 with just three points and four fouls.

In order for Boston to pick up the win, White, Grant Williams, and/ or even Daniel Theis must step up.

Payton Pritchard was solid in the win with 18 points, but he did shoot 6-of-16 on the night. Boston can rely on JT & JB to shoulder the load once again, but when one of the two sits, someone else has to be better.

Grant Williams has been stellar at home during the postseason, as evident by his 27-point outing in Game 7 against Milwaukee. On the road, however, Grant has struggled to provide Boston with anything to write home about.

The game plan for Game 2 may depend heavily on if Marcus Smart is able to play, but even with Smart in the lineup, Grant, Theis, and White have to play much better.