By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
Jimmy Butler scored 17 points in the third quarter on the way to a total of 41 points, as the Miami Heat beat the Boston Celtics 118-107 in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals.
Butler also had nine rebounds, five assists, three blocks, and four steals, while Tyler Herro scored 18 points and also had eight rebounds and Gabe Vincent added 17 on the way to an easy win for Miami.
Jimmy Butler recorded his fifth career playoff game with 40 points on 60% shooting, tied with Charles Barkley for third most over the last 30 postseasons.
The only players with more are LeBron James (12) and Shaquille O’Neal (8).
The Celtics missed Al Horford who entered the league’s health and safety protocols and also Marcus Smart due to a right mid-foot sprain. Horford may also miss Game 2.
Jayson Tatum with 29 points and Jalen Brown with 24 were the top scorers on the losing side.