Miami Heat

The Celtics will face the Heat for a trip to the NBA Finals after Sunday’s Game 7 victory over the 76ers. Boston won a thrilling seven-game series against Miami last year, but things will be very different this time.

The Heat, entering the 2022 NBA playoffs as Eastern Conference’s No. 1 seed, are now at a disadvantage. They’re looking to become the second No. 8 seed in league history to reach the championship round.

The Celtics, meanwhile, are considered favorites to be betting on the last team. They’ll have a home-court advantage in this series, but as we’ve learned throughout the playoffs, that’s no guarantee of success.

Behind Erik Spoelstra’s stellar coaching, the Heat is a disciplined team that plays to the game plan every night. Despite what Jimmy Butler may tell you, “Playoff Jimmy” is Real. He can swing the game with one hand.

Joe Mazzulla has less postseason experience than Spoelstra and made some questionable decisions in his first season. These Celtics also showed that they need to be consistent with their execution.

But for players, Boston does have a talent advantage. We’ll give Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and the rest of the Celtics a little edge. Expect the Celtics to win this match.