The Miami Heat lead the Boston Celtics 1-0 in the Eastern Conference Finals, with Game 2 set for Thursday evening. Miami enters as -3.5 point favorites following their dominant Game 1 victory.

Heat Analysis:

• Jimmy Butler dominated Game 1 with 41 points (12-19 FG, 17-18 FT), 9 rebounds, 5 assists, 4 steals and 3 blocks
• Butler exploited matchups, particularly targeting Payton Pritchard
• Tyler Herro (18 points) and Gabe Vincent (17 points) provided strong supporting performances
• Coach Spoelstra praised Butler's elite competitive drive

Celtics Analysis:

• Jayson Tatum led with 29 points, 8 rebounds, 6 assists, and 4 steals
• Jaylen Brown added 24 points and 10 rebounds
• Robert Williams contributed 18 points and 9 rebounds
• Marcus Smart (DPOY) likely to return for Game 2, crucial for defending Butler
• Al Horford remains out in health and safety protocols

Prediction: Heat to win and cover the -3.5 spread

Key Factors:

• Home court advantage for Miami
• Momentum from Game 1 victory
• Butler's aggressive play and leadership
• Smart's return helps Boston but may not be enough

The Heat's combination of Butler's dominance, strong role player support, and home court advantage should propel them to another victory and a 2-0 series lead.

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