Game 4: Boston Celtics vs. Miami Heat prediction, odds, TV channel

The Boston Celtics fell behind early in Game 3 and never were able to overcome a 21-point first-quarter deficit that grew in the second quarter’s opening moments. Now, home-field advantage has been lost, and the Cs must now make rotational adjustments or run the risk of losing control in this Eastern Conference finals rematch from two seasons ago.

On Saturday night, the Miami Heat lost Jimmy Butler in the third quarter with right knee inflammation but managed to survive because of Bam Adebayo’s 31 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists, in what was a dominating effort against the Cs frontline.

With Robert Williams’ status unclear for Game 4, the Cs must get more out of Al Horford on the defensive end regardless. Beyond the ‘Time Lord’, Marcus Smart’s knee brings the total of questionable Celtics starters to two. Kyle Lowry and Jimmy Butler are all but essentially confirmed, so Boston badly needs some positive injury news Monday.

Whether or not they do, we know they’ll need better from Jayson Tatum, who didn’t record a single field goal in the fourth quarter.

Will the Cs get a star performance from both ‘Jays’ and send the series back to Miami at a 2-2 tie? Hardwood Houdini has your odds, over/under points total, and a prediction for Monday night’s action on ABC:

Boston Celtics vs. Miami Heat odds, spread, over/under

According to WynnBet, the Celtics are 7-point favorites against the Heat at home. Miami is a +240 underdog on the road, with the Cs moneyline set at -300. The over/under for the game has been placed at 207.5 points.

Celtics vs. Heat prediction

Game 3 was disappointing on several levels for Celtics fans, most notably because a key injury for the Heat could have been the opening Boston needed to steal a contest they were down big in.

Game 4 cannot be a repeat. Vegas believes in the C’s ability to bounce back, and so does the Houdini. Lay the seven.

Pick: Celtics -7 (108)