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Boston Celtics: 3 takeaways from C’s critical Game 5 win in Miami

By Austin DeCouta

MIAMI, FLORIDA - MAY 25: Marcus Smart #36 of the Boston Celtics reacts against the Miami Heat during the fourth quarter in Game Five of the 2022 NBA Playoffs Eastern Conference Finals at FTX Arena on May 25, 2022 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
MIAMI, FLORIDA - MAY 25: Marcus Smart #36 of the Boston Celtics reacts against the Miami Heat during the fourth quarter in Game Five of the 2022 NBA Playoffs Eastern Conference Finals at FTX Arena on May 25, 2022 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /
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Entering Wednesday night, the C’s were finally at full strength. Marcus Smart returned after a one-game absence and Robert Williams remained healthy enough to be without a minutes restriction.

The first quarter started a bit sluggish for both teams as the offense was at a premium. Miami and Boston traded empty possessions, turnovers, and bricks early on.

At the end of the opening segment, the Heat led by just two points, 19-17.

The second quarter was much of the same. A grueling, grind of a quarter that continued to see tremendous defense from these two premier defensive teams.

Derrick White impressed once again for Boston, as he came off the bench and scored a quick eleven points in the opening half.

As the first two periods drew to its conclusion, the shamrocks trailed by five as they racked up just 37 points.

Jayson Tatum continued to be bothered by a shoulder ailment. The injury which occurred towards the end of Game 3 seemed to be present in Game 4as well.

Tatum left numerous jumpers short, something he needs to improve upon moving forward, and failed to get into a rhythm from the charity stripe early on.

The third quarter served as a dramatic turnaround as the shamrock offense stepped up. Ime Udoka made a few adjustments to lead his team to success. At one point, the C’s went on a bulldozing 24-2 run.

He drew up countless plays to get Jaylen Brown open without the ball in his hands. Working around his ball-handling struggles, Udoka got creative and helped Jaylen shine.

The Celtics’ defense continued to do what it does best and that is dominate. Boston kept the foot on the gas during the fourth quarter, outscoring Miami 24-22.

Al Horford shined once again as the 35-year-old added 16 points, seven rebounds, five assists, and two blocks on 5-of-8 shooting from the floor.

This Game 5 win puts the C’s just one win away from the NBA Finals. There is still work to do in this series as the Heat are the top seed for a reason.

Without any further hesitation, let’s dive into the 3 biggest takeaways from the Game 5 win:

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