The Boston Celtics vs. Miami Heat is one of the seven contests being played on Thursday. Boston has won five out of their last six games, with their lone defeat coming against the Denver Nuggets in a thrilling contest (102-100). The team is in form and will look to remain undefeated against the Heat. Many were expecting Miami to be boosted by the acquisition of former Charlotte Hornets’ point guard Terry Rozier. Despite Terry debuting for the Heat, they still lost 105-96 to the undermanned Memphis Grizzlies.
Boston is having an amazing season. They played the second game of a back-to-back set against the Dallas Mavericks on Monday like a fully recharged team. Without their center, Al Horford and less than 24 hours after their victory against Houston, the team beat the Mavericks 119-110.
Preview
The Boston Celtics and Miami Heat have been very familiar with each other for the past four years. The Celtics were the second-place team in last year’s playoffs but lost a thrilling 4-3 Eastern Conference matchup against the eighth-seeded Heat. Acquiring Terry Rozier for Kyle Lowry will make the Heat stronger in the long run. Although Miami lost in his debut, the team is expected to adjust to the high-scoring player in the lineup on Thursday.
The Heat lost their fourth consecutive game, despite Rozier making his debut for the team. They lost to the Grizzlies, who did not even have four of their starters in the lineup. But the Heat play their best against top competition, which Boston will undoubtedly provide them. The upcoming contest will be another interesting battle between these rivals.
Starting lineup
The Boston Celtics are in their healthiest position since the start of the season. They had a two-day break before their much-awaited clash against the Miami Heat. Boston’s five-man lineup for the game will include Kristaps Porzingis, Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Jrue Holiday and Derrick White. While the Heat will start with Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo, Tyler Herro, Haywood and Terry Rozier could join them.
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Prediction
The Heat will be playing back-to-back games on the second night and are still adjusting to the new acquisition of Terry Rozier for Kyle Lowry. On the other hand, the Celtics are well rested and have continued to be in great form this season. Boston may go up to 2-0 in the season series, but Miami Miami Heat will likely cover the +6.5 spread.
