After a disappointing loss to the Miami Heat in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals, the Boston Celtics are hungrier than ever to even up the series on their home turf.
Tip-off for Game 2 is Celtics is scheduled for 8:30 pm ET while airing on TNT. The Celtics enter this game as 9-point favorites with the total set at 215.
How will this one play out? Let’s dive into the Celtics vs. Heat predictions, odds, and picks for Game 2 below.
Celtics vs. Heat Odds
- Spread: Celtics -9
- Total: 215
Odds via Bet365. If you are new to Bet365, click our exclusive promo link below to Bet $1 to Win $200.
Game Info
- Date: Friday, May 19
- Time: 8:30 pm ET
- Location: TD Garden – Boston, MA
- TV: TNT
Our top NBA props. Everyday. Matt LaMarca runs through his Best NBA Player Props Today for this pair of playoff games.
Heat Betting Trends
- Heat are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games following a ATS win.
- Over is 9-1 in Heat last 10 road games.
Celtics Betting Trends
- Celtics are 10-4 ATS in their last 14 home games.
- Over is 10-2 in Celtics last 12 games playing on 1 days rest.
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Celtics vs. Heat Predictions
With a 4-1 ATS (against the spread) record following an outright loss this postseason, the Celtics are ready to prove they’ve got what it takes to withstand the Heat’s fiery offense.
In Game 1, the Celtics seemed to be in control, leading by nine at halftime before the Miami Heat stormed back in the third quarter, scoring a franchise playoff-record 46 points in the stanza. The Heat went on to outscore the Celtics 66-50 in the final two quarters, ultimately winning 123-116.
However, this early series setback doesn’t spell doom for the Celtics. In fact, it may just fuel their fire, as they’ve shown grit and determination throughout the playoffs.
Moreover, the Miami Heat’s history of stealing Game 1 on the road in three straight series is an impressive feat, but it may not bode well for their Game 2 performance. In the previous two series, the Heat lost Game 2 each time while averaging an 11-point deficit in those contests. This pattern suggests that Miami may struggle to maintain momentum in Game 2, providing an opportunity for the Celtics to strike back and cover the 9-point spread.
The Celtics have a strong roster that’s more than capable of turning things around. Jayson Tatum, who led the team with 30 points in Game 1, has been a force to be reckoned with this postseason. Jaylen Brown, who finished with 22 points and nine rebounds, is another key player who’s been stepping up and delivering impactful performances. If Tatum and Brown can maintain their high level of play and stay aggressive in the paint, the Celtics have a solid chance of bouncing back and winning Game 2 by a comfortable margin.
Celtics vs. Heat Picks
With all these factors considered, the Boston Celtics have a strong case for bouncing back and covering the -9 spread against the Miami Heat. While nothing’s ever a sure thing in the world of sports betting, the Celtics’ track record in this postseason, combined with the Heat’s Game 2 struggles, make for a compelling argument that the Green Machine is set to strike back and crush the Heat’s dreams in their upcoming clash.
So, buckle up and get ready for a thrilling showdown as these two Eastern Conference powerhouses collide in Game 2.
The Pick: Celtics -9 | -110 at Bet365