Can the Celtics Splash the Simmering Heat?

"Now, Celtics-Heat? Yeah, that's got the "R" word written all over it." (RedsArmy.com)


The Celtics and Heat are Rivals...no matter the argument.

 The celtics take on their rivals Miami Heat tonight in a playoff rematch from last season. They look for a little payback since being knocked out of the postseason in embarrassing fashion by the Heat. I believe that the Celtics can win tonight (unlike most media), but it's going to be hard. There are three things that the C's need to do in order to win this game tonight. If they don't, they are going to get run off the floor.
    First, they need to keep the Heat from making this a track meet. The Heat have the best full court break in the league with Lebron James and Dwayne Wade. If they start running, this game will be over quick. The C's need to get into a half court rhythm and slow the tempo of the game down. Yes, they need the fast break, but if they start running back and forth all game, their old legs will eventually be left in the back court. So key number one is play a good half court style game, and make it a defensive battle.
    Second, Rondo needs to stay agressive like on Christmas Day. With the big 3 aging, and Pierce out, Rondo is now the engine of this team. He needs to take his shot when it's there and keep his team involved at the same time. He can be a one man fast break, and he'll need to do that sometimes when the older guys are on the floor with him.
    The third thing is turn LeBitch (Lebron) into a jump shooter. He can get to the hole better than anyone in the league, and once he beats you, there is no stopping him. The C's are going to need to play a team defense to stay in front of him and force him into awkward shots. Same thing goes for Wade. He is the best slasher in the game (Wade) and with Lebron by his side, he can be nearly unstoppable. I'd be happy if Bosh does some scoring that means the other 2 aren't; and let's face it, Bosh just isn't a superstar. He looks like an alien and has a decent post game. Bosh is a role player and a supporting act for the two real stars of South Beach.

     So overall, I actually do have the Heat winning this game. I hope I'm wrong, but unless the Celtics play a flawless game, it's not going to happen. The Heat are practically the same team from last year and already have chemistry. They started out strong on Christmas and looked untouchable. Where as the Celtics have a lot of new faces and with the short pre-season, are now still trying to find that gel-like chemistry (Also Pierce being out does not help). I think the Heat win 108-95, and the Celtics are winded after what is looking to become a track meet sprint to the finish.