NBA Playoffs 2012, Heat Vs. Celtics: Game 7 Reaction

Reaction from Game 7 between the Miami Heat and Boston Celtics.

2012 NBA Playoffs, Heat Vs. Celtics Game 7: Miami Prevails 101-88 To Advance To NBA Finals

LeBron James delivered. With the season on the line and with the game tied at 73 after three quarters, James tallied 11 points over the final period to lead the Heat to a 101-88 win over the Boston Celtics in Game 7, punching its ticket to the NBA Finals for the second straight year. The often-criticized All-Star finished with a game-high 31 points and 12 rebounds, one game after helping Miami stave off elimination with 45 points and 15 rebounds in Game 6.

In the fourth quarter on Saturday, in which the Heat outscored the Celtics 28-15, James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh scored all of their team's points, including the last 31.

Boston got a significant boost from Rajon Rondo, who recorded a triple-double with 22 points, 10 rebounds and 14 assists.

In the finals, the Heat will face the Oklahoma City Thunder, who upended the San Antonio Spurs in six games last week.

Stick with this StoryStream for news and updates throughout Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals. For more analysis and discussion on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier, SB Nation's Heat blog. Visit CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for the opponent's perspective during tonight's contest. For all your Conference Finals analysis, be sure visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Playoffs, Heat Vs. Celtics Game 7 Score Update: Miami, Boston Tied At 73 After Three Quarters

At halftime, the Miami Heat trailed -- by seven points. But 12 minutes later, that deficit has been erased. After the third quarter at the American Airlines Arena, the Miami Heat and Boston Celtics are now tied at 73 after Miami outscored Boston by a score of 27-20 during the third period.

LeBron James has certainly given the Heat a boost. With six points in the third, he is at 20 for the game, along with nine rebounds.

Defensively, though, stopping Boston's Rajon Rondo hasn't been easy, as the guard has finished with 16 points, eight rebounds and 12 assists over 32 minutes.

Stick with this StoryStream for news and updates throughout Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals. For more analysis and discussion on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier, SB Nation's Heat blog. Visit CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for the opponent's perspective during tonight's contest. For all your Conference Finals analysis, be sure visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Playoffs, Heat Vs. Celtics Game 7 Score Update: Miami Down 53-46 At Halftime

Trailing by four points following the first 12 minutes, the Miami Heat had a chance to narrow the gap and make a run. No run, however, happened, and at halftime of Game 7, Miami trails by a score of 53-46 to the visiting Boston Celtics. Making things rather difficult: both LeBron James and Dwyane Wade have struggled a bit scoring-wise.

The tandem, though combining for 25 points, had just six field goals compared to four turnovers. James, who had 30 points at halftime of Game 6, has 14 points. Wade has 9. The other member of the "Big Three," Chris Bosh has come off the bench to chip in with nine points on 4-for-6 shooting.

Meanwhile, the Celtics have been led by Brandon Bass and Paul Pierce, who finished with 14 and 13 points, respectively.

Stick with this StoryStream for news and updates throughout Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals. For more analysis and discussion on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier, SB Nation's Heat blog. Visit CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for the opponent's perspective during tonight's contest. For all your Conference Finals analysis, be sure visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

GIF: Rajon Rondo Gets Rejected By LeBron

Rajon Rondo thought he had an open layup. Then he didn't. LeBron came over ... and this happened ...

Stick with this StoryStream for news and updates throughout the Eastern Conference Finals. For more analysis and discussion on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. VisitCelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for the opponent's perspective during the series. For all your Conference Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Playoffs, Heat Vs. Celtics Game 7 Score Update: Miami Trails 27-23 After First Quarter

Following one quarter at the American Airlines Arena, the Miami Heat trails the vising Boston Celtics in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals, 27-23. LeBron James, who finished with 45 points and 15 rebounds in a historic Game 6 performance, has already grabbed eight points on 1-of-3 shooting. Most of his points have come by way of the free-throw line, where he has gone 6-for-6. Collectively, Miami has shot rather well -- 44 percent from the field -- but has hoisted just 16 attempts, compared to 21 from Boston.

The Celtics have been led early by guard Ray Allen, who has eight points on 100 percent from 3-point range. Kevin Garnett has also added six points.

Stick with this StoryStream for news and updates throughout the Eastern Conference Finals. For more analysis and discussion on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. Visit CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for the opponent's perspective during the series. For all your Conference Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

GIF: Rajon Rondo Is One Sneaky Dude

Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals between the Miami Heat and Boston Celtics has begun -- it's in the first quarter, to be exact. And if we've learned anything thus far, it's that Rajon Rondo is, you know, crafty.

Turn around, Dwyane!

Stick with this StoryStream for news and updates throughout the Eastern Conference Finals. For more analysis and discussion on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. VisitCelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for the opponent's perspective during the series. For all your Conference Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Playoffs, Heat Vs. Celtics Game 7: Game Time, TV Schedule And More

NBA Playoffs 2012, Celtics Vs. Heat: Dwyane Wade Finds Ways To Contribute

While LeBron James will be the focus of all the post-game talk after the Miami Heat's game six victory over the Boston Celtics --and rightfully so -- Dwyane Wade, despite scoring only 17 points on 17 shots, found ways to make a difference, too. Although inefficient from the field, Wade also had eight rebounds, four assists and three steals.

At the Miami Herald, Jason Mastrodonato writes that the Wade of the Eastern Conference Finals isn't the Wade everyone knows -- for whatever reason. At the same time, Mastrodonato writes, the 2006 Finals MVP is still making a contribution:

This might not be the Wade that most expected to show up when facing elimination in the Eastern Conference finals. He is averaging just 21.2 points per game this series, far from his numbers when the Heat won it all in 2006. But he's still finding ways to add value.

Perhaps it's time to alter expectations.

Dwyane Wade isn't the MVP. But he's still Wade.

Stick with this StoryStream for news and updates throughout the Eastern Conference Finals. For more analysis and discussion on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. Visit CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for the opponent's perspective during the series. For all your Conference Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Playoffs, Celtics Vs. Heat: LeBron's First Half Was Close To Perfect

Last night in Boston, the Miami Heat forced a game seven with a 98-79 victory over the Celtics. LeBron James was the catalyst, producing one of the greatest playoff performances in NBA history. James had 45 poins on 19-for-26 shooting with 15 rebounds and five assists.

He dropped 30 points in the first half, tying an NBA playoff record. As Diego Quezada of Peninsula Is Mightier wrote:

Coming into this game with a tremendous amount of pressure, LeBron James responded with a magnificent game to lead the Heat in a 98-89 win. He a nearly impeccable first half, scoring 30 points and making 12 of his first 13 shots. He made a series of contested jumpers, worked well out of the post and even had a nasty tip-dunk in the second quarter. On the other side of the court, James guarded Paul Pierce, Rajon Rondo and Kevin Garnett at different times. To put it simply, he had a half for the ages. James missed a few shots in the third, but still made a number of big-time baskets, always responding when the Celtics threatened with a mini-run.

Over at Celtics Blog, Evans Clinchy says that LeBron's epic performance covered up some not-so-epic turns by his teammates:

The Heat's three-time MVP was so dominant that his lackluster teammates went unnoticed. It was an afterthought that Dwyane Wade missed 10 of his first 12 shots, that Chris Bosh still wasn't his normal self, that Mario Chalmers' play was scatterbrained on both ends, that Mike Miller was a complete no-show. Wade in particular got a lucky bailout -- it was his fourth consecutive game missing the majority of his shots, and several of them were embarrassing ones. Layups. Open jumpers with LeBron double-teamed. Looks he should have made -- but no one noticed or cared, because LeBron covered up every Miami miscue.

Stick with this StoryStream for news and updates throughout the Eastern Conference Finals. For more analysis and discussion on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. Visit CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for the opponent's perspective during the series. For all your Conference Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

LeBron James Is Not A Championship Player

LeBron James is not the player to lead the Miami Heat to a championship

LeBron James Showered With Beer Leaving TD Garden Floor

Celtics Vs. Heat, NBA Playoffs 2012 Game 6: LeBron James Scores 45 In Game For The Ages

The Miami Heat extended their season on Thursday night by simply blowing the Boston Celtics off the floor, 98-79. The Heat led by double digits for nearly the entire second half, riding the back of MVP LeBron James who put on one of, if not the best playoff performance of his career. It was on par with his 48-point performance in 2007 when he single-handedly beat the Detroit Pistons. It was never close, and the TD Garden crowd headed for the exits with almost half of the fourth quarter remaining.

When it was all said and done, James went for 45 points, 15 rebounds, and five assists. He did it all, hitting every kind of shot from every spot of the floor. He hit fadeaway jumpers, he hit turnaround shots with his back to the basket, he drilled three-pointers. He attacked the rim in transition for some emphatic dunks, and he got to the free-throw line to exorcise the demons at the TD Garden. He finished 19 of 26 from the floor. It was a performance that will go down in NBA history. Highlights of his 45-point performance:

It's now a one-game series, and the decisive Game 7 will be Saturday night in Miami.

Stick with this StoryStream for news and updates throughout the Eastern Conference Finals. For more analysis and discussion on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. Visit CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for the opponent's perspective during the series. For all your Conference Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

Heat Vs. Celtics, NBA Playoffs 2012 Game 6: LeBron James Incredible 1st Half Has Miami Up 13

With their season on the line, the Miami Heat lead the Boston Celtics 55-42 after one half of Game 6. Miami enjoyed a double-digit lead for much of the first half thanks to one man -- LeBron James. The MVP was absolutely on fire, controlling the first half on the floor and quieting the crowd off it.

James had one of the best halves of his career, putting on a virtuoso performance on the offensive end. James hit the first 11 of 12 shots he took, finishing the first half with 30 points in just 24 minutes. He was 12 of 14 from the field and it could have been even more amazing, as he was just five of nine from the charity stripe. He also grabbed five rebounds but it was his work with the ball -- whether it be on the attack in transition, with his back to the basket, or pulling up. He was hitting everything in the most pressure-packed game of his career.

Dwyane Wade was almost as bad as James was brilliant, hitting just one of six shots from the field. Wade had just six points in support of James.

The Celtics played a particularly sloppy half, committing nine turnovers and struggling to really get the game close after Miami went out on an early run. Rajon Rondo scored 19 points as he tried to match LeBron.

If James can even maintain any semblance of that first half, and Wade can pick things up, the Heat will return home for a Game 7 on Saturday night.

Stick with this StoryStream for news and updates throughout the Eastern Conference Finals. For more analysis and discussion on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. Visit CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for the opponent's perspective during the series. For all your Conference Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

LeBron James Dominating Early Against Celtics

Chris Bosh's Goofy Faces Extend Beyond The Game To Warm-Ups

Chris Bosh Injury: Heat Forward Will Not Start Game 6 Against Celtics

Miami power forward Chris Bosh will not start in the Heat's elimination game against the Boston Celtics on Thursday night. Bosh will once again be active for Game 6, but he will come off the bench with Udonis Haslem and Shane Battier starting in the Miami frontcourt. Word came down about 45 minutes before tip-off that Bosh would not get the start, via Tom Haberstroh of ESPN:

Chris Bosh not starting tonight, per @MiamiHeat

— Tom Haberstroh (@tomhaberstroh) June 7, 2012

It will be a very small lineup for Erik Spoelstra to start, but it's likely that Bosh sees an increase in the 14 minutes he played in Miami's Game 5 loss.

Stick with this StoryStream for news and updates throughout the Eastern Conference Finals. For more analysis and discussion on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. Visit CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for the opponent's perspective during the series. For all your Conference Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Playoffs, Celtics Vs. Heat Game 6: Game Time, TV Schedule And More

The Miami Heat are trying to stave off elimination on Thursday night as they head back to Boston to take on the Celtics.

2012 NBA Playoffs, Heat Vs. Celtics: 'Good Job, Good Effort' Not Enough

It was mostly serene as the Miami Heat filed off the court and into the locker room following a stunning loss in Game 5 on Tuesday night. So quiet, that exhortations of "good job, good effort" could be heard from one young Heat fan, following the 94-90 loss that took them from two games up on the Boston Celtics to one game away from elimination.

Good job, good effort.

Looking at the numbers that would seem to describe Heat start LeBron James and Dwyane Wade, who combined for 57 points. Unfortunately, no body else on the Heat could muster more than nine.

Effort aside, the Heat scoring dried up when it mattered most, which was not the case for Boston, whose effort won the game. Says Peninsula Is Mightier, SB Nation's Heat blog:

Without a veteran point guard to backup Chalmers and assist Wade and LeBron with some playmaking, the Heat offense went cold through several minutes to close out the second, third and fourth quarters and in the process badly destroying any momentum and hopes of a fluid stretch of offense to build up a strong lead that could have also fired up the home crowd. But time and time again it was the Celtics defense that came through on multiple stops, as well as employing an effective zone defense that forced the Heat into a jump shooting team instead of the slashing, dynamic offense they had when they overcame the Pacers.

With Game 6 back in Boston on Thursday night, the Heat will need to double down on the effort, this time with more results to show for it.

It's not over by a long shot but the Heat must count on the Big 3 individually to have brilliant games and for the supporting players to step up to give them badly needed support. Their defense still hasn't been able to contain Garnett in the paint and Paul Pierce and Ray Allen don't look as hobbled as they did to start the series.

With each loss, the more pressure is placed on the team from all angles. Thursday night now represents a chance to redeem themselves in order to earn the opportunity to fight another day and make it to the Finals.

Game 6 takes place Thursday night in Boston at 8:30 p.m.

Stick with this StoryStream for news and updates throughout the Eastern Conference Finals. For more analysis and discussion on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. Visit CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for the opponent's perspective during the series. For all your Conference Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

Heat Vs. Celtics, NBA Playoffs 2012 Game 5: Boston Takes 3-2 Lead In Eastern Conference Finals

For the first time in the Eastern Conference Finals, the Miami Heat are down in their series against the Boston Celtics. Miami dropped Game 5 94-90 on Tuesday night, as the Celtics made a big push in the third quarter and down the stretch to take a 3-2 lead.

Miami struggled on the offensive end in the first half but LeBron James kept the Heat ahead, scoring 18 of his 30 points in the first half. In addition to the 30 points, James also grabbed 13 rebounds. Dwyane Wade had a quiet first half but led Miami on a 9-0 run in the second, finishing with 27 points on 10 of 22 from the floor. But there was little else happening for the Heat on the offensive end -- Chris Bosh provided a huge spark off the bench in the first half, scoring nine points and grabbing six boards but he would not score again in his first game back since straining an abdominal muscle.

Kevin Garnett carried Boston through a poor shooting night, scoring 26 points, grabbing 11 boards, and completely altering the game on defense in the paint. Boston then hit some huge shots and got the bounces down the stretch. Even Mickael Pietrus got in on the act, hitting two big shots. But the real dagger came from Paul Pierce, who was awful all night but rose up to knock in a three to give Boston a four-point lead with 50 seconds to go.

On the brink of elimination, the series now returns to TD Garden in Boston for Game 6 on Thursday night.

Stick with this StoryStream for news and updates throughout the Eastern Conference Finals. For more analysis and discussion on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. Visit CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for the opponent's perspective during the series. For all your Conference Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

Heat Vs. Celtics, 2012 NBA Playoffs Game 5: Miami Squanders Early Cushion, Leads 42-40 At Half

After one half at AmericanAirlines Arena, the Miami Heat lead the Boston Celtics 42-40 in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals. Miami started quick out of the gates, jumping to a 7-0 lead with the crowd worked into a full lather. But as they've done all series, Boston hung in there and cut what was once a 13-point lead down to two as the teams hit the locker room.

Both teams are not shooting particularly well, but it was Miami that went cold down the stretch and could not get the offense going, save for LeBron James. The 2012 MVP has 18 of Miami's 42 points, as he hit an array of runners and jumpers in the first 24 minutes. But as a team, Miami is shooting just 36.6 percent from the floor. Dwyane Wade started hot, playing a big role in the early run but he's quieted since, picking up two early fouls, including a bad reach on a Kevin Garnett rebound.

Erik Spoelstra got a huge boost from Chris Bosh off the bench. The power forward added nine points and grabbed six boards -- five on the offensive glass. But despite the Celtics woes on the offense, Boston made it just a two-point game at half. Miami committed 11 turnovers to keep things even.

Stick with this StoryStream for news and updates throughout the Eastern Conference Finals. For more analysis and discussion on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. VisitCelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for the opponent's perspective during the series. For all your Conference Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

Heat Start Game 5 With LeBron James To Dwyane Wade Alley-Oop

Chris Bosh Injury: Forward Could Play, But Won't Start For Miami In Game 5

Though he's a game-time decision and could very well play for the Miami Heat in Game 5 tonight against the Boston Celtics, forward Chris Bosh won't be in the starting lineup, according to head coach Erik Spoelstra.

Spoelstra told reporters that Bosh will go through a normal pre-game workout routine before a decision is made. Either way, he won't start.

If Bosh does play, Spoelstra said, it would be in "short bursts" and that he would play a "small role."

The 6-foot-11 forward suffered a lower abdominal strain during Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifials against the Indiana Pacers and has been sidelined for the nine games since. He has been rehabbing in the meanwhile.

Stick with this StoryStream for news and updates throughout the Eastern Conference Finals. For more analysis and discussion on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. Visit CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for the opponent's perspective during the series. For all your Conference Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

Nothing Normal Ever Happens To Chris Bosh

Chris Bosh Injury Update: Heat Forward Is A Game-Time Decision For Game 5

Miami Heat forward Chris Bosh will be a game time decision for Game 5 on Tuesday night according to head coach Erik Spoelstra.

Spoelstra says Chris Bosh is a game-time decision. "We'll let you know tonight."

— Tom Haberstroh (@tomhaberstroh) June 5, 2012

Bosh has been missing in action since pulling an abdominal muscle in the team's Eastern Conference series against the Indiana Pacers. The hope is that if Bosh will come back, his size and inside presence will assist the Heat in snapping out of the funk that has cost the Heat two straight games against the Celtics. If not, the Heat cannot let his absence effect them negatively, or else they will have their backs to the wall.

Stick with this StoryStream for news and updates throughout the Eastern Conference Finals. For more analysis and discussion on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. Visit CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for the opponent's perspective during the series. For all your Conference Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Playoffs, Heat Vs. Celtics Game 5: Game Time, TV Schedule And More

Chris Bosh Injury Update: Heat Forward Felt Like Playing 10 Days Ago

Miami Heat forward Chris Bosh is now considered day-to-day and close to returning to action for the team after suffering an abdominal muscle strain against the Pacers. Bosh is possible for Game 5 on Tuesday. Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra revealed on Monday that Bosh said he was feeling well enough to play 10 days ago.

Spoelstra and his players would certainly like to have Bosh in the lineup for Game 5 with the series now tied 2-2 after back-to-back Boston wins. With an injury like Bosh's, his return is a matter of comfort level and conditioning, which led the Heat boss to caution the media to take his player's diagnosis with a dose of skepticism.

Bosh workout three times while the team was in Boston, and has been closely monitored by the coach and training staff. Barring a setback, Miami hopes to have him playing on Tuesday.

For more on the Celtics, check out SB Nation Boston and CelticsBlog. For more on the Heat, head over the SBN Tampa Bay and Peninsula Is Mightier.

Chris Bosh Injury Update: Coach Erik Spoelstra Says Game 5 Return Is Possible, Not Definitive

Sources have been wondering if Miami Heat forward Chris Bosh could return for Game 5 on Tuesday. Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra responded to an earlier ESPN.com report that says that he could return by saying that even though there is a possibility that he could return on Tuesday, it's far from a sure thing.

Spoelstra addresses ESPN.com report, says Bosh is now day-to-day. "To say it is definitive right now is premature."

— Tom Haberstroh (@tomhaberstroh) June 4, 2012

The Heat could certainly use Bosh's height and presence in Tuesday's game, given that the series is now a best of three. Miami needs every possibly advantage so that they can get two chances to close out the Celtics as opposed to having to win two straight games facing elimination.

For more on the Celtics, check out SB Nation Boston and CelticsBlog. For more on the Heat, head over the SBN Tampa Bay and Peninsula Is Mightier.

2012 NBA Playoffs, Celtics Vs. Heat: LeBron James Does Not Foul Out, Just Ask Him

Miami Heat superstar LeBron James fouled out of Game 4 against the Boston Celtics on Sunday. James picked up his sixth foul of the game in overtime, sending him to the bench when the Heat needed him the most. Whatever happens to James in any game, much less a playoff game, is sure to invite a heated debate, but the call that put James out of the game looked like a stretch even to the least partisan of observers.

James backed down Mickael Pietrus, sending him to the floor. It looked as though Pietrus might have been indulging himself in a little acting. It was incidental contact at worst.

via cdn2.sbnation.com

James sounded off on the call immediately after the game:

"I don't foul out. That sixth foul, I wish I would have earned it and it actually would have been a foul."

At the post-game presser he echoed that sentiment:

"I know how to play game of basketball, I know I don't need the advantage of holding somebody or pushing somebody down"

Game 5 happens on Tuesday night, with the series now evened at 2-2. Expect the call on James to loom large as a subtext to the next game, if not the rest of the series depending on how things unfold.

For more on the Celtics, check out SB Nation Boston and CelticsBlog. For more on the Heat, head over the SBN Tampa Bay and Peninsula Is Mightier.

2012 NBA Playoffs, Celtics Vs. Heat: Slow Start Dooms Miami, How To Fix It For Game 5

After taking a two game lead in the NBA Eastern Conference Finals, the Boston Celtics stormed back, winning the next two. Game 4 went right down to the wire, needing an overtime period to settle things. It was fortunate for the Heat that things got that far, given their slow start to the game.

Peninsula Is Mightier, SB Nation's Heat blog, noted the Heat's start to the game.

For the second straight game Miami got off to a poor start, this time falling behind by as many as 14 in the opening minutes of the game. It ballooned to 18 in the final minutes of the first half before the Heat began their comeback. They outscored Boston 21-12 in the 3rd quarter and 42-28 in the entire 2nd half. It was a great comeback that fell short once LeBron James fouled out.

The image of LeBron fouling was not a pretty one, as you can see below.

via assets.sbnation.com

And as for how the Heat can bounce back?

The Heat are going to have to harness the ways they have played well during Game's 3 and 4 and turn that into a full 48 minutes effort on Tuesday night at the AAA. Getting the kind of games they have been from Udonis Haslem will certainly help. He picked up 12 points and 17 rebounds in his 35 minutes of work.

Of course, the news of Chris Bosh's potential return could certainly help the Heat win two more and close out the series.

For more on the Celtics, check out SB Nation Boston and CelticsBlog. For more on the Heat, head over the SBN Tampa Bay and Peninsula Is Mightier.

Chris Bosh Injury: Heat Forward Could Return For Game 5

The Miami Heat just might have a powerful reinforcement in their lineup this week in the form of Chris Bosh. The injured forward could be a game-time decision when the Heat host the Boston Celtics for Game 5 of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals on Tuesday night, ESPN's Tom Haberstroh said on Monday morning.

I'd imagine the team will call Chris Bosh "a gametime decision" with every intention of him playing tomorrow's Game 5.

— Tom Haberstroh (@tomhaberstroh) June 4, 2012

Bosh's return could be big for the Heat, obviously. Many expected the team to struggle without the forward, but the duo of LeBron James and Dwyane Wade have managed to carry much of the load, with key contributions from other members of the team.

Haberstroh expects Heat coach Erik Spoelstra to discuss Bosh's status on Monday afternoon.

For more on the Celtics, check out SB Nation Boston and CelticsBlog. For more on the Heat, head over the SBN Tampa Bay and Peninsula Is Mightier.

2012 NBA Playoffs, Heat Vs. Celtics: Boston Defeats Miami In Overtime, 93-91

The Miami Heat were down in Game 4 to the Boston Celtics by as many as 18 points and didn't take their first lead until just over eight minutes remaining in the fourth quarter. After giving up 61 points in the first half, Miami clamped down on defense to help themselves get back into the game and ultimately force overtime with Boston.

In the extra session, Paul Pierce would foul out for the third time in the last five games and not long after, LeBron James would foul out as well -- his first time in a Miami Heat uniform -- with Boston holding on to a 92-91 lead with under two minutes to play.

The game would be tight knit and go back and forth the rest of the way but the Celtics would outlast the Heat on sheer hustle plays and timely stops at the end of the overtime period and outlast Miami by a final score of 93-91.

Boston, like Miami, held serve on their home court as the scene now shifts back to Miami for Game 5.

Stick with this StoryStream for news and updates throughout the Eastern Conference Finals. For more analysis and discussion on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. Visit CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for the opponent's perspective during the series. For all your Conference Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

Rajon Rondo Says The Heat Are Crying

2012 NBA Playoffs, Heat Vs. Celtics: Boston Ahead At The Half, 61-47

The Miami Heat and Boston Celtics have completed the first two quarters of Game 4 and the Celtics hold an early lead, 61-47. Boston's 61 points are the most points that Miami has given up in a half all season.

For the Heat, LeBron James has done all of the heavy lifting from a scoring perspective as he has 19 points and three rebounds. He also has four turnovers in the game. James's fellow All-Star Dwyane Wade is struggling mightily as he has eight points on just 2-11 shooting from the field.

For the Celtics, Paul Pierce is leading Boston in scoring with 19 points at the half while Ray Allen has shot the ball well scoring 11 points and connecting on three of his five three-point attempts.

Stick with this StoryStream for news and updates throughout the Eastern Conference Finals. For more analysis and discussion on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. Visit CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for the opponent's perspective during the series. For all your Conference Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Playoffs, Celtics Vs. Heat Game 4: Game Time, TV Schedule And More

The Miami Heat will look to right the ship on Sunday in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals after dropping Game 3 to the Boston Celtics, 101-91.

2012 Eastern Conference Finals: Miami Heat Reaction To Game 3 Loss

With two quarters of lulls and 10 missed free throws in their Game 3 loss to the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Finals, the Miami Heat didn't appear to put forward their best effort in a game that could've put the defending conference champions up 3-0 in the series.

Still, the Heat isn't panicking just yet. After all, they did put together a comeback that had fans at the edge of their seats in the fourth quarter, though it wasn't enough to erase what the Celtics had done up to that point.

After the game, Dwayne Wade gave credit to the unlikely heroic performances of Marquis Daniels and Keyon Dooling, who both came off the Boston bench to provide quality minutes on both sides of the floor against Miami.

Watch Wade and LeBron James in the post-game press conference right here.

For a more in-depth look at the Miami Heat check out their SB Nation blog Peninsula Is Mightier and head over to the CelticsBlog for more on the Boston Celtics.

Chris Bosh Injury Update: Miami Not Expecting Bosh To Play In Game 4

The Miami Heat has possibly their worst performance of the 2012 NBA Playoffs on Friday night, losing Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals 101-91 to the Boston Celtics. Kevin Garnett dominated the Heat with 24 points and 11 rebounds, and Miami's small lineups were ineffective, which leads to the question of when might injured Heat big man Chris Bosh return. SB Nation's Tom Ziller captured LeBron James' thoughts on Bosh's return in his postgame comments:

"We don't know when Chris will be back. We're not going into the next game hoping that he's going to be there or whatever the case may be. We've got to prepare like he's not playing. We'll prepare for Game 4 like he's not playing."

Game 4 will be played Sunday at 8:30 p.m. ET in Boston, with Game 5 to be played at 8:30 p.m. ET on Tuesday in Miami.

Stick with this StoryStream here at SB Nation Tampa Bay for news and updates throughout the Eastern Conference Finals. For more analysis and discussion on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. Visit CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for the opponent's perspective during the series. For all your Conference Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

Celtics Vs. Heat, NBA Playoffs 2012 Game 3: Boston Wins 101-91 To Get Back In Series

The Boston Celtics avoided the brink of elimination on Friday night, battling the Heat to a 101-91 Game 3 win at TD Garden. After the Heat pulled out an incredible overtime victory on Wednesday night in Miami, Boston was out for blood and fighting for their playoff lives. The stars for Boston came ready to play, and Rajon Rondo, Kevin Garnett, and Paul Pierce ensured the series would move to 2-1. The Celtics led by as many as 24 points and enjoyed a double digit lead for most of the second half until a furious rally by LeBron James, and some key buckets from Mike Miller, got the lead into single digits with about five minutes to play.

James led Miami with 34 points, and singlehandedly kept the Heat in it during the first 20 minutes of the game. LeBron scored 20 points in the first half. He got into some foul trouble late in the half but it was still another impressive showing for the MVP. Dwyane Wade had a relatively quiet game, adding just 18 points in support of LeBron.

But the trio of Pierce, Garnett, and Rondo all scored 20-plus points as the Celtics shot the lights out. Boston also enjoyed a 12-rebound advantage on the glass, turning the tables from Game 2 when Miami controlled the boards.

Miami did not seem fazed by the loss as they exited the court, and the fourth-quarter comeback to make things interesting could give them a little momentum heading into Game 4, scheduled for Sunday night in Boston.

Stick with this StoryStream here at SB Nation Tampa Bay for news and updates throughout the Eastern Conference Finals. For more analysis and discussion on the Heat, visitPeninsula Is Mightier. Visit CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for the opponent's perspective during the series. For all your Conference Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

Celtics Vs. Heat, NBA Playoffs 2012 Game 3: Boston Leads By 13 At Halftime

The Boston Celtics took their largest lead of the first half as the first 24 minutes came to close on Friday night, taking a 55-42 lead into the locker room. The Celtics were excellent on offense, as both Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce took control. Garnett lead the charge on the offensive end for much of the first half, combining with Rajon Rondo to push the lead out to double digits during a 13-0 run. It was Pierce who led the the attack at the end of the half as the C's pushed their lead to 13. Pierce scored 15 points while Garnett added 12.

For Miami, LeBron James had another spectacular half but was whistled for his third foul late in the half, biting on a Pierce pump fake. James was on another level to start the game, however, finishing the half with 20 points in an an arena where he's put up some huge numbers. Dwyane Wade was just three of nine from the floor and added six points, so he will need to get into rhythm on the offensive end if the Heat want to take a commanding 3-0 lead.

Boston is also shooting better than 50 percent from the floor and out-rebounding the Heat on the glass, a role reversal from Game 2. As we've seen before, however, Miami can cut into a double-digit deficit quickly.

Stick with this StoryStream here at SB Nation Tampa Bay for news and updates throughout the Eastern Conference Finals. For more analysis and discussion on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. Visit CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for the opponent's perspective during the series. For all your Conference Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Playoffs, Celtics Vs. Heat Game 3: Game Time, TV Schedule And More

NBA Playoffs 2012, Heat Vs. Celtics: Mario Chalmers Shines For Miami

While much of the talk after the Heat's 115-111 win over the Celtics on Wednesday night will center around Rajon Rondo's all-time performance (44 points, 10 assists, 8 rebounds in 53 minutes), his counterpart, Mario Chalmers, was a big reason why Rondo's famous game was all for naught.

Chalmers had his last big game in game three of the series against Indiana, the last time Miami lost a game in the postseason. As Andre C. Fernandez of the Miami Herald writes:

His performance Wednesday night against the Celtics meant a lot more.

Chalmers finished with 22 points, including 14 in the first half, to keep the Heat afloat long enough to rally for a 115-111 overtime victory in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals. Chalmers also had six assists, four rebounds and two steals.

"[The first half stretch] was very important because we had to play catch-up and that's not something we're accustomed to," Chalmers said. "I just tried to pick up the slack. That's my job to provide energy."

Stick with this StoryStream here at SB Nation Tampa Bay for news and updates throughout the Eastern Conference Finals. For more analysis and discussion on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. Visit CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for the opponent's perspective during the series. For all your Conference Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Playoffs, Heat Vs. Celtics: Boston Dictates Pace, But Miami Executes When It Counts

The Miami Heat took a 2-0 lead over the Boston Celtics in the 2012 NBA Eastern Conference Finals with a 115-111 overtime victory at home on Wednesday night. The Celtics jumped out to an early lead, pushing the Heat's deficit as far as 14 points in the first half, and taking a seven-point lead over the hosts into halftime.

It was a deserved victory for the Heat, writes Surya Fernandez at Peninsula Is Mightier, but still somewhat concerning that Boston controlled the pace for much of the game:

While the victory was well deserved and made their plays when it counted the most in overtime, the Heat allowed the visiting team to dictate the pace of the game from the outset to fall behind from a deficit that at one time was 14 points and could not turn it around until the second half. Even still, once the Heat finally was able to take the lead and appeared ready to blow the game wide open with a dominant third quarter as they had done in their current winning streak dating back to the Pacers series, the Celtics simply would not go away and clawed right back into the game to retake the lead. The final moments of regulation were some of the most intense sequences that the Heat have faced this postseason and the team will be better off in the end for getting tested so heavily by the Celtics.

Jeff Clark at CelticsBlog says that Boston's best just wasn't good enough:

It wasn't just Rondo either. Pierce, Allen, and Garnett all played about as well as you'd expect (with their point totals at about their average - which is impressive considering the amount of shots Rondo took). As a team they played their hearts out. It seemed like they took the best shots from the Heat and kept on coming back. They simply could not beat LeBron and Wade and the parade to the free throw line.

Stick with this StoryStream here at SB Nation Tampa Bay for news and updates throughout the Eastern Conference Finals. For more analysis and discussion on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. Visit CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for the opponent's perspective during the series. For all your Conference Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

Heat Vs. Celtics, NBA Playoffs 2012 Game 2: Miami Survives To Take 2-0 Lead

As the game between the Boston Celtics and Miami Heat in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals went into overtime, the Celtics were able to match the Heat blow for blow, even without Paul Pierce on the court. Rajon Rondo rebounded from being shut down early in the second half and finished the night with the highest scoring out put of his entire career with 44 points.

The Heat took the lead with under a minute and a half left in overtime on a tip in. As Boston was trying to tie the game up, a bad pass by Kevin Garnett was stolen and Dwayne Wade pushed the score to four and then five points after sinking his free throw. After a bad three-point air ball by Garnett with under a minute, Boston resorted to fouling Miami until the clock expired as the Heat go up 2-0 in the series with a 115-111 victory.

Stick with this StoryStream here at SB Nation Tampa Bay for news and updates throughout the Eastern Conference Finals. For more analysis and discussion on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. Visit CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for the opponent's perspective during the series. For all your Conference Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

Heat Vs. Celtics, NBA Playoffs 2012 Game 2: Teams Head To Overtime Tied 99-99

The Miami Heat were handled in the first half by the Boston Celtics, but came roaring back after the break. The Celtics at one point led by 15 points, but the Heat quickly cut into the lead and took the lead from the Celtics late in the third quarter. A big part of the rally was the effort of Dwayne Wade, who was nearly held scoreless in the first half. Wade started the game going 1-for-6 from the floor, but opened the second half shooting 3-for-5 and got this monster block in transition as the Heat were working to take the lead.

The Heat took the lead with no point guard on the guard and Boston seemed to struggle guarding the lineup Miami put on the floor. The Heat were able turn a large deficit into a near double digit lead in a short matter of time, as they handled the Celtics on the break and got some great defense like this block from LeBron James, igniting a Heat fast break.

Boston clearly became frustrated with the massive momentum shift as Kevin Garnett picked up a technical foul nearly causing a fight with James Jones and Mickael Pietrus picked up what looked like a flagrant foul on LeBron James during a fast break. The second half saw the Heat defense adjust and virtually take Rajon Rondo out of the game.

Boston went on a roll themselves, re-taking the lead late in the fourth quarter of the game. Rondo got his groove back into the game and set forth a 12-point turnaround. Paul Pierce picked up his fifth foul of the game with under three minutes left while guarding James and had to go to the bench.

The Heat pulled back and tied the game, then was able to take a lead with under two-minutes left thanks to a Pietrus foul putting LeBron James on the line. After the Heat took a three-point lead, the Celtics took the ball at half-court after a time out and had the right play called, as Ray Allen sunk a wide open three-point shot to tie the game at 99-99.

LeBron James missed a shot in the paint after a pass from Dwayne Wade but was able to pick up his own rebound giving the Heat one more chance, but the game heads to overtime.

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Heat Vs. Celtics, 2012 NBA Playoffs Score Update: Late Surge Brings Miami Close, 53-46

The Miami Heat handled the Boston Celtics in the first game of the Eastern Conference Finals but in the second game of the series it's the Celtics that are handling the Heat. The two teams struggled finding their shots in the first half, including LeBron James missing a dunk, but the Celtics found their groove and pulled ahead on the Heat.

The Heat have hit on 6-for-14 three-point shots, which let them rally back to get the game close, but the Celtics have yet to hit a three-pointer. James finished up the first half with 12 points while Mario Chalmers led the Heat in scoring with 14 points. Dwayne Wade struggled in the first half for Miami, not picking up his first points until there was under 25 seconds left in the half and shot just 1-for-6 from the floor.

For Boston, Rajon Rondo has controlled the game in the first half, leading all scorers with 22 points and 7 assists, missing on just four shots so far. Paul Pierce has picked up 10 points while Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett combined for 13 points in the first half.

Stick with this StoryStream here at SB Nation Tampa Bay for news and updates throughout the Eastern Conference Finals. For more analysis and discussion on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. Visit CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston for the opponent's perspective during the series. For all your Conference Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

GIF: LeBron James Misses Dunk

2012 NBA Playoffs, Heat Vs. Celtics Game 2: Game Time, TV Schedule And More

The Miami Heat is looking for a repeat performance on Wednesday in the second game of the Eastern Conference Finals. Lead by LeBron James' 32 points and 13 rebounds in Game 1, Miami got off to a quick start en route to a 93-79 comfortable win over the Boston Celtics, who were certainly frustrated as evidenced by four technical fouls. It now holds a 1-0 edge in the best-of-seven series.

Boston struggled to score on Monday, shooting less than 40 percent from the field and also experienced difficulty slowing down either James or guard Dwyane Wade. The tandem combined for 54 points. By comparison, the rest of the Heat players combined for 39.

Though the Celtics are searching for offense of their own, how much they can count upon Ray Allen appears in question. The veteran guard did not practice on Tuesday because of a right ankle injury, but he is expected to play in Game 2.

When: Wednesday, May 30

Tip-off: 8:30 p.m. EST

TV: ESPN

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NBA Playoffs 2012, Heat Vs. Celtics: Without Bosh, Miami Still Dominates Inside

The Miami Heat controlled the paint in Monday's 93-79 win over the Boston Celtics. Miami blocked 11 shots, one shy of a franchise playoff record, and out-rebounded Boston by a 48-33 margin. Without Chris Bosh, though, there were concerns that Miami's frontline would get bossed around by the Celtics.

According to Andre C. Fernandez of the Miam Herald:

The frontcourt of 6-11 Kevin Garnett, 6-11 Greg Stiemsma, 6-8 Brandon Bass and 6-7 Paul Pierce played a big role in the Celtics winning three of four games against the Heat during the regular season.

In two of those late-season victories against the Heat - not counting the final meeting where both teams rested key starters - the Celtics finished with a rebounding edge.

Monday was much different.

Boston only recorded one block, and they were outscored in the paint, 42-34. Shane Battier chipped in with 10 rebounds and two blocks, while LeBron James led the way with 13 rebounds and three blocks. Dwyane Wade and Joel Anthony had two blocks, and Mario Chalmers and Ronny Turiaf each had one

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2012 NBA Playoffs, Heat Vs. Celtics: LeBron James and Dwyane Wade Dominate In Victory

The Miami Heat took a 1-0 lead in the 2012 Eastern Conference Finals with a 93-79 win over the Boston Celtics in Miami last night. As tends to happen whenever the Heat win, LeBron James and Dwyane Wade led the way for Miami. James scored 32 points and grabbed 13 rebounds, while Wade added 22 points and recorded a team-leading seven assists.

Over at Peninsula Is Mightier, Diego Quezada notes that James and Wade also dominated their individual match-ups:

The three-time MVP recorded 32 points on 13-of-22 shooting from the field and 13 rebounds on the night. Paul Pierce, by contrast, shot just 5-of-18 from the field for 12 points and three boards. In the pivotal third-quarter, Wade threw a full-court pass to James for an easy lay-in. He then blocked a Rajon Rondo attempt at the end of the shot block. Yes, he was fantastic.

James' co-star scored 10 of his 22 points in the fourth and shot 8-of-13 from the field and a perfect 6-for-6 from the foul line. Wade also had seven assists, becoming a willing passer when the Celtics sent two defenders at him. Like James, Wade dominated his match-up. The all-time leading 3-point shooter went a dismal 1-for-7 from the field and missed four free throws.

At CelticsBlog, Jeff Clark says that game one came down to only one team being able to execute:

A lot of people are going to want to make excuses for this game. Not me.

So the refs called a few ticky-tac technicals. So what? The Heat missed 2 of those free throws (ball don't lie).

So the Celtics are banged up. Chris Bosh. Enough said.

The Celtics lost this game because the Heat executed and the Celtics did not. The Heat made baskets, the Celtics did not.

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Heat Vs. Celtics, NBA Playoffs 2012 Game 1: Miami Takes Opener Of Eastern Conference Finals

The Miami Heat opened the Eastern Conference Finals with a 93-79 win over the Boston Celtics. Miami squandered an early double-digit lead by surrendering 35 second-quarter points to the Celtics, who pulled even at the half. But the Heat quickly regained control in the second half, pushing the lead back to 11 early in the third quarter with another impressive defensive effort. Miami held the Celtics to just 33 points in the second half, as LeBron James and Dwyane Wade put it in cruise control on the offensive end to secure the win.

James was simply fantastic, finishing with 32 points and 13 rebounds. He set the tone on both ends of the floor as the Heat led by double digits the entire fourth quarter. Wade added 22 points in an efficient 8 of 13 from the floor. But the role players were also huge for Miami, as the three-point shooting from Mike Miller and Shane Battier added a nice boost. Battier had one of his best games this postseason, posting a double-double effort with 10 points and 10 boards.

It was dominating performance that could be a ton-setter for the rest of the series. Game 2 will be Wednesday night at AmericanAirlines Arena.

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VIDEO: LeBron James Emphatically Swats Rajon Rondo

Heat Vs. Celtics, NBA Playoffs 2012 Game 1: Miami Tied With Boston After 1st Half

The Miami Heat are tied with the Boston Celtics 46-46 after one half of Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals. The Heat came quick out of the gates but Boston put together a strong second quarter rally to pull even after 24 minutes.

The Heat took control early by completely taking Boston out of it on the offensive end. The Celtics scored just 11 points in the first quarter. Meanwhile, on the other end, it was MVP LeBron James on the offensive end who consistently got to the rim where the Boston bigs could not match his powerful finishes. James scored 13 points in the first quarter alone, and after an extended rest to start the second, he finished the half with 17. Mike Miller, who came off the bench and drilled two three-pointers, is miami's second-leading scorer with eight points.

Boston stormed back in the second quarter, however, cutting the Miami lead from 11 to 2 in a matter of minutes. Rajon Rondo, Paul Pierce, and Ray Allen started to warm up and the offense came alive. Pierce hit a late three to cut the lead to two at 46-46. After a late review, the referees also took away a Joel Anthony put-back that came right as the shot clock expired. As a team, the C's scored 35 points in the second quarter which was the first time Miami allowed a 30-point quarter this postseason.

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VIDEO: LeBron James Throws Down Alley-Oop Early In Game 1

In Case You Were Unclear, That's Dwyane Wade's Mom

NBA Playoffs 2012, Heat Vs. Celtics Schedule: Dates Set For Miami And Boston Conference Finals Series

Only the Celtics stand in Miami's way of getting to the NBA Finals for a second consecutive season.