The Pressure Is On Miami Heat Now After Slow Start Leads To Game 5 Loss Against Celtics

The Boston Celtics didn't need a 50-point game from Jayson Tatum this time.

Instead of relying on their All-Star, they received a team effort in their 110-97 victory Thursday against the Miami Heat in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference finals. The Heat's once commanding lead in the series is now 3-2.

The Heat trailed by double-digits most of the game and never really threatened. The tone was set in the first quarter when they had more turnovers (6) than assists (3), resulting in a 15-point deficit. Four of the Celtics starters scored in double-figures, led by Derrick White's 24 points.

The Heat's Bam Adebayo and Jimmy Butler were non-factors, combining for 29 points but most of them came when the outcome was already decided.

The Heat now must win Game 6 Saturday in Miami to avoid a Game 7 Monday on Boston's homecourt.

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Shandel Richardson covers the Miami Heat for Inside The Heat.

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