(2) Miami Heat vs. (3) Boston Celtics
Inside the Series
Season Series: BOS (3-1)
Scoring Leaders: LeBron James (MIA): 26.7 PPG
Paul Pierce (BOS): 18.9 PPG
Assist Leaders: Rajon Rondo (BOS): 11.2 APG
LeBron James (MIA): 7.0 APG
Rebounding Leaders: Kevin Garnett (BOS): 8.9 RPG
Chris Bosh (MIA): 8.3 RPG
Key Players
Miami: F LeBron James
The self-proclaimed "King James" has already accomplished a whole lot in his career. But he still has two more "to-do's" on his list. Obviously, one is winning an NBA title. And the other is finally beating Boston in a playoff series. Although the Celtics have only sent LeBron and company packing twice in the postseason, the feat would be incredibly encouraging for James. In order for that to happen, LeBron has to bring his already dominant game to another level.
Boston: G Ray Allen
The Celtics have shot 36.5% from three this season. However, they have shot an impressive 45.0% from long range against Miami in four games and won three of those. So if Boston wants that success over the Heat to translate into the playoffs, they must continue to shoot the ball efficiently. That all starts with the greatest three-point shooter of all-time, Ray Allen.
Key Matchup
Chris Bosh vs. Kevin Garnett
These are two guys that need to play well in order for their respective teams to advance. Boston, just as they always have, heavily rely on Garnett to provide a sense of toughness and an overwhelming defensive presence to their game. And if Miami wants to win, they must get more production from Bosh. He has to crash the boards to not only get past Boston, but any other team they may face going on.
Prediction
Game 1: Boston 94, Miami 85
Game 2: Boston 95, Miami 102
Game 3: Miami 89, Boston 100
Game 4: Miami 104, Boston 110
Game 5: Boston 91, Miami 116
Game 6: Miami 79, Boston 94
Boston wins 4-2
Miami isn't quite ready for the grit and experience of the Celtics. Yes, they are a talented team but Miami is not as great as many first thought. Expect Rajon Rondo to create havoc and play the series of a lifetime. I really cannot see Miami winning this series since Boston is a deeper team, a more seasoned team, and just a flat-out better team.
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