The Boston Celtics staged a dramatic comeback from a 22-point deficit to defeat the Miami Heat 98-96 on Friday night, with the game ending on a missed three-pointer by Heat guard Davion Mitchell. Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 29 points, while Payton Pritchard added 24, helping Boston secure its fifth consecutive win and sweep the season series against Miami.
Miami dominated early, jumping to a 15-2 lead and extending it to 22 points in the first half. Andrew Wiggins scored 26 points for the Heat, and Norman Powell contributed 24, but the team’s early momentum faded after halftime. The Celtics shot poorly initially, missing 20 of their first 21 three-point attempts and managing only a 28% field goal percentage in the first two quarters.
The turning point came in the third quarter, where Boston outscored Miami 25-7 over the final 7:06. Derrick White and Pritchard hit back-to-back three-pointers to ignite the rally, and Pritchard’s additional three cut the deficit to 67-58. White, who finished with 21 points despite a 6-of-20 shooting night, gave Boston its first lead with free throws late in the third, but Powell’s buzzer-beating layup tied the game at 74-74 heading into the fourth quarter.
In the final period, the teams traded baskets until White hit a crucial corner three-pointer with 1:31 remaining, providing the Celtics with the final margin of 98-96. Miami had a last chance to win, but Mitchell’s three-point attempt from the corner with 2.7 seconds left missed, sealing Boston’s comeback victory. The Heat had led 59-38 at halftime but were outscored 60-37 in the second half, highlighting their struggles to maintain leads.
Nikola Vucevic, acquired by Boston at the trade deadline, made his debut with the Celtics and recorded a double-double of 11 points and 12 rebounds. The 35-year-old forward received enthusiastic support from the TD Garden crowd and contributed key plays during the third-quarter surge, underscoring the team’s mid-season adjustments. His presence added depth to Boston’s frontcourt and played a role in the defensive effort that limited Miami’s scoring in the second half.
This win extends Boston’s streak to five games and improves their record to 34-18, solidifying their position in the Eastern Conference standings. Miami drops to 27-26, facing challenges in maintaining playoff contention. The Celtics have now won all three meetings against the Heat this season, which could provide a psychological edge in potential postseason matchups. The comeback marked Boston’s largest of the season, demonstrating their resilience and ability to perform under pressure.
For Miami, the loss underscores issues with closing out games and executing in clutch moments, as they wasted a significant lead. The Heat will need to address these inconsistencies as they push for a playoff spot. Meanwhile, Boston’s victory reinforces their status as a contender, with contributions from both stars and role players highlighting their balanced attack.
Looking ahead, the Heat will aim to bounce back when they visit the Washington Wizards on Sunday, while the Celtics prepare to host the New York Knicks in another key divisional matchup. This thrilling contest adds to the narrative of Boston’s resurgence and Miami’s ongoing challenges as the NBA season progresses toward the All-Star break.
