Derrick White Shines as Celtics Defeat Heat in Game 4

In a standout performance, Derrick White led the Boston Celtics to a decisive 102-88 victory over the Miami Heat in Game 4 of their Eastern Conference first-round series. White’s career-best 38 points, alongside Jayson Tatum’s 20 points and 10 rebounds, sealed a commanding 3-1 lead for the top-seeded Celtics.

Despite losing Kristaps Porzingis to a calf injury in the first half, Boston outplayed Miami on their home court for the sixth consecutive time. Bam Adebayo‘s impressive 25 points, 17 rebounds, and five assists were not enough to lift the Heat, who played without key players Jimmy Butler and Terry Rozier.

With Game 5 scheduled in Boston, the Celtics have a chance to advance to the second round. The winner of the Boston-Miami series will face the victor of the Cleveland–Orlando matchup in the Eastern Conference semifinals.

Porzingis’ injury scare and a controversial play involving Tatum’s ankle did not deter the Celtics’ dominance. The team remained focused as White set the tone early with 16 first-quarter points to establish a solid lead.

History favors the Celtics as they hold a 3-1 series lead, a position they have converted into a series win 28 out of 28 times. Miami struggled to match Boston’s offensive prowess, scoring only 59 points through three quarters.

White’s stellar performance, complemented by Tatum and Brown’s contributions, showcased Boston’s depth and resilience. Adebayo and Herro fought hard for the Heat, but the absence of Butler and Rozier posed challenges for Miami.

The Celtics now await Game 5 with the opportunity to close out the series on their home court. The Heat face an uphill battle to keep their postseason hopes alive, needing a strong performance to force a Game 6 back in Miami.