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  • Victor Oladipo hits 1-of-7 shots in ugly loss
    Victor Oladipo hit just 1-of-7 shots for three points, five rebounds and two steals in just 15 minutes off the bench on Wednesday. 

    Advice: Oladipo threw up a couple rimless bricks from downtown and didn't look good tonight. And the Heat needed him with Tyler Herro out with a groin injury. The Heat will look to bounce back on Friday at Boston and force a Game 7, but after tonight's performance and the injuries and fatigue mounting, it doesn't feel like Boston is going to allow it to happen at home in game 6.  NBCSportsEDGE.com Yesterday, 8:51 pm
     
  • Bam Adebayo bounces back to lead Heat with 18
    Bam Adebayo hit 8-of-15 shots for 18 points, 10 rebounds, one assist and one block in Wednesday's 93-80 loss to the Celtics in Game 5. 

    Advice: Adebayo bounced back from his dreadful nine-point performance in Game 4 to lead the Heat in scoring tonight, but he didn't get much help from his teammates. Gabe Vincent scored 15 off the bench, Jimmy Butler hit just 4-of-18 shots for 13 points, Duncan Robinson had 11 and Kyle Lowry and Max Strus combined to miss all 17 of their shots tonight. That duo has now hit just 1-of-30 shots over the Heat's last two games and it will be shocking if the Celtics don't put the Heat away on Friday night at Boston.  NBCSportsEDGE.com Yesterday, 8:42 pm
     
  • Kyle Lowry, Max Strus can't throw it in the ocean
    Heat starters Kyle Lowry and Max Strus combined to miss all 17 shots they attempted in Wednesday's Game 5 loss to the Celtics, although Strus was able to hit four free throws to put them on the board offensively. 

    Advice: The duo is now 1-of-30 over their last two games and the Heat were missing Tyler Herro tonight, out with a strained left groin. The Heat were actually winning this game of attrition at halftime by a score of 42-37 but the Celtics went on a 24-2 run in the third and fourth quarter to quickly (and easily) put the game away in the second half. Lowry is clearly bothered by his hamstring injury and Strus just can't make a shot, so the Heat are going to have to turn to Gabe Vincent (15 points) and Duncan Robinson (11 points) if they're going to have a chance in Boston for Game 6 on Friday. This game was hard to watch and both teams are clearly banged up. The Heat were 7-of-45 from downtown tonight and have hit just 60-of-184 shots in their last two games (33%). They're banged up and have run out of gas as the Celtics will look to advance to the Finals on Friday night at home. NBCSportsEDGE.com Yesterday, 8:37 pm
     
  • Jimmy Butler (knee) hits 4-of-18 shots in Game 5 L
    Jimmy Butler hit 4-of-18 shots for 13 points, six rebounds, four assists, two steals and a block in 40 minutes of Wednesday's 93-80 loss at home to the Celtics to fall into a 3-2 deficit in the series.

    Advice: Butler didn't look right all night and threw up a few airballs as well as some really bad misses. He says his right knee is fine but he certainly didn't pass the eye test tonight, and his teammates weren't much better as the Heat shot 7-of-45 from 3-point land tonight. Bam Adebayo led the way with 18 points and 10 rebounds, and Gabe Vincent scored 15 off the bench, but the Heat look like a bunch of wounded warriors at this point. It's hard to see the Celtics losing at home on Friday, but anything is possible. NBCSportsEDGE.com Yesterday, 8:27 pm
     
  • Robert Williams (knee) goes for 6/10 and 3 blocks
    Robert Williams played through his left knee injury and hit 2-of-2 shots for six points, 10 rebounds, a steal and three blocks in 27 minutes of Wednesday's Game 5 win over the Heat to help give the Celtics a 3-2 lead in the series. 

    Advice: Williams didn't start the second half for undisclosed reasons, giving way to Grant Williams, but played in the second half and looked good. Two of his blocks were on Miami 3-pointers and his defense played a big part in Boston's 32-16 domination in the third quarter. Time Lord should be out there again for Game 6 on Friday when the Celtics will look to put the Heat away in Boston. Al Horford was also solid, as usual, with 16 points, seven boards, five assists, a steal, two blocks and a 3-pointer in the win.  NBCSportsEDGE.com Yesterday, 8:19 pm
     
  • Marcus Smart (ankle) plays 24 minutes in win
    Marcus Smart played through his right ankle injury on Wednesday and hit just 1-of-5 shots for five points, five rebounds, four assists and a 3-pointer in just 24 minutes of action. 

    Advice: The Celtics were dreadful in the first half and both teams shot just 38 percent before the break, while Derrick White looked like the best player for either team for part of the night. He outplayed Smart and given Smart's health status, it made sense for the Celtics to roll with White for 29 minutes tonight. White hit 6-of-8 shots for 14 points, five assists, two steals and a block tonight, and was a big reason the Celtics stayed in the game prior to putting the Heat away in the third quarter.  NBCSportsEDGE.com Yesterday, 8:16 pm
     
  • Jayson Tatum plays well despite shoulder issue
    Jayson Tatum hit 7-of-20 shots and two 3-pointers for 22 points, 12 rebounds, nine assists and five turnovers in Wednesday's 93-80 win over the Heat to take a 3-2 lead in the series. 

    Advice: This game was difficult to watch, even when the Celtics turned it on in the second half and the game wasn't as close as the final score suggests. Tatum was bothered by a right shoulder injury for most of the game but played through it and overcame 1-of-9 shooting and four points in the first half to come up an assist away from a triple-double. The Celtics, who went on a 24-2 run in the second half, are in the driver's seat now and can put the Heat away with a win on Friday night in game 6 at Boston.  NBCSportsEDGE.com Yesterday, 8:10 pm
     
  • Jaylen Brown overcomes slow start for Game 5 win
    Jaylen Brown hit 10-of-19 shots and five 3-pointers for a game-high 25 points, four rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block in Wednesday's 93-80 win over the Heat to take a 3-2 lead in the series.

    Advice: Brown started the game with four quick turnovers and hit just 2-of-7 shots for six points in the first half but bounced back in the third quarter for a big second half and an easy win at Miami. Brown didn't look good at all in the first half but after his second-half performance, it looks like he should be good to go for Friday's Game 6 in Boston. Brown didn't turn it over after the first quarter and had one of the dunks of the playoffs on his way to pushing the Celtics to within one win of the NBA Finals. NBCSportsEDGE.com Yesterday, 8:06 pm
     
  • Robert Williams (left knee) playing Wednesday
    Robert Williams (left knee soreness) has officially been made available for Game 5 against the Heat on Wednesday and will have no restrictions, but the team will still be conscious of his playing time.

    Advice: Williams continues to play through a left knee injury, and it was clear it was bothering him in Game 4 as he started looking a bit gimpy in the third quarter. He only made it through 19 minutes of that one, but with Boston totally dominating, they didn’t need him for more than that. Hopefully he doesn’t suffer any sort of setbacks, and he’ll continue to make life miserable for Heat center Bam Adebayo. NBCSportsEDGE.com Yesterday, 3:57 pm
     
  • Tucker, Strus, Vincent all available for Game 5
    P.J. Tucker (left knee irritation), Max Strus (right hamstring strain) and Gabe Vincent (left hamstring strain) will all play in Game 5 against the Celtics on Wednesday.

    Advice: The only guy of this group we had any doubt about was Tucker as his injury is legitimate, but he’s going to tough it out in a crucial Game 5. Strus will look to bounce back from a scoreless Game 4 in which he missed all seven of his shots, while Vincent will back up Kyle Lowry, who is available despite dealing with a lingering hamstring injury. NBCSportsEDGE.com Yesterday, 3:54 pm
     
  • Kyle Lowry (left hamstring) good to go for Game 5
    Kyle Lowry (left hamstring strain) has been upgraded to available for Game 5 against the Celtics on Wednesday.

    Advice: Lowry has played in the last two games after missing the four before that and is ready to roll tonight, but we fully expect him to show up on Miami’s injury report for however long the team lasts in the postseason. In his two prior games, Lowry has accounted for just 14 total points on 5-of-17 shooting from the field, so he should bounce back any day now, but he also hasn’t been his best in general this postseason. Gabe Vincent, who had been starting for Lowry when unavailable, will stay put on the bench and isn’t a great DFS target any longer. NBCSportsEDGE.com Yesterday, 3:53 pm
     
  • Tyler Herro (groin) won’t play in Game 5 Wednesday
    Tyler Herro (left groin strain) has been downgraded to out for Wednesday’s Game 5 against the Celtics.

    Advice: This will be Herro’s second straight game in street clothes, and at this point, there’s plenty of reason to be concerned. Herro is dealing with an injury that generally requires around 2-to-4 weeks to heal, and the team said they wanted to get him back this week, but tonight isn’t the night. Guys like Gabe Vincent and Victor Oladipo figure to be larger parts of the rotation while Herro is on the sidelines. Herro is the only inactive Heat player, as the other four questionable guys (Kyle Lowry, P.J. Tucker, Gabe Vincent and Max Strus) have all been ruled in. NBCSportsEDGE.com Yesterday, 3:52 pm
     
  • Marcus Smart, Robert Williams will play in Game 5
    Marcus Smart (right ankle sprain) and Robert Williams (left knee soreness) will be available for Game 5 against the Heat on Wednesday.

    Advice: When Ime Udoka was asked how he expects Smart to move, he just replied "Good enough," speaking to the toughness of Boston's point guard. Both Smart and Williams got through warmups without issues, and they should immediately join the starting unit tonight alongside Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown and Al Horford. Smart is back after a one-game absence whereas Williams is coming off of a 19-minute game, so hopefully they’re both relatively fresh for an important Game 5. Derrick White will shift back to the bench with Smart available, so he’s not longer a great DFS target. NBCSportsEDGE.com Yesterday, 3:50 pm
     
  • Ben Simmons (back) should be ready for camp
    Ben Simmons, who underwent successful back surgery on May 5, has reportedly been “progressing well” and should be ready in time for training camp.

    Advice: This came from a source close to Simmons, and he’s also apparently “in great spirits” following his surgery and in the beginning of his rehab process. Luckily, we’ve only heard positive things regarding the status of Simmons’ procedure, including Nets GM Sean Marks saying that he was feeling “great” exactly two weeks ago. Simmons didn’t play one second this season but as of this very moment, it looks like he should be ready well before the upcoming regular season begins in October. A lot can happen until then, however, but hopefully the good news keeps coming in as the months pass. NBCSportsEDGE.com Yesterday, 12:36 pm
     
  • Kevin Durant hasn't spoken to Nets mangement
    According to a report in the NY Daily News, Kevin Durant has not spoken to the Nets management since the season ended.

    Advice: This could be nothing, or it could be something. The fact of the matter is that you always want to have communication with your franchise player, but Durant has been vocal at times that his responsibility lies on the hardwood, and he likes to take more of a hands-off approach. The report went on to mention that if the Nets don't sign Kyrie Irving to a long-term extension, Durant could be next out the door in Brooklyn. We will monitor the situation as more information becomes available this off-season.  NBCSportsEDGE.com Yesterday, 12:01 pm
     
  • Smart, Robert Williams to test things pregame
    Marcus Smart (right ankle sprain) and Robert Williams (left knee soreness) are feeling better and will test things out pregame, according to Celtics head coach Ime Udoka.

    Advice: Smart missed Game 4 in Boston, while Williams was in the lineup. We will likely see both on the injury report each game for at least the rest of the series, and for Williams, for the rest of the postseason as Udoka noted on Wednesday. We will see if they can go in Game 5 in Miami, but it will be a game-time decision, so stay tuned for updates.  NBCSportsEDGE.com Yesterday, 11:26 am
     
  • Udoka: Robert Williams (knee) day-to-day going fwd
    Celtics head coach Ime Udoka said that Robert Williams will be day-to-day for the remainder of the postseason.

    Advice: Williams had surgery to repair a torn meniscus at the end of the regular season and he has been fighting through some pain and swelling for the entirety of the postseason. The Timelord's status game-to-game depends entirely on the recovery of his knee after days where he plays. This will not change, so expect for him to be on the injury report as long as Boston is still playing. As for his status on Wednesday night, Udoka said that he and Marcus Smart are feeling better and that both will test it out pregame, but are still questionable to play. For a quick update, Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN later tweeted that there was "optimism" Williams will be available, but reiterated that he'll indeed have to test his knee in warmups. NBCSportsEDGE.com Yesterday, 11:16 am
     
  • Jayson Tatum says shoulder is still an issue
    Jayson Tatum said on Wednesday that his shoulder is still giving him some issues, but that it will not keep him from playing going forward.

    Advice: This series between Boston and Miami has been marred by injuries on both sides, and there is a multitude of players who are playing through injuries at the moment. Tatum injured his shoulder in Game 3 in Boston, but still managed to play in Game 4, and looked great. This isn't much more than just something to monitor throughout the series and the remainder of the postseason should Boston advance.  NBCSportsEDGE.com Yesterday, 9:38 am
     
  • Nets unwilling to offer Irving long-term extension
    According to a report from the NY Daily News, the Nets are "outright unwilling" to offer Kyrie Irving a long-term extension this offseason. 

    Advice: "This is why...the Nets’ championship hopes hinge on an amicable solution with Irving, whose personal decision not to get vaccinated and unpredictable injury history have left the Nets hesitant, and now, according to a source familiar with the Nets’ thought process, outright unwilling to give him a long-term extension," Kristian Winfield wrote in the NY Daily News on Wednesday. Irving clearly doesn't have much incentive to agree to a short-term deal, so it will be interesting to see which side budges, or if the relationship has reached its end. If the latter is the case, this would mark the end of a disastrous experiment in Brooklyn, and could be the precursor for Kevin Durant leaving, according to Winfield.  NBCSportsEDGE.com Yesterday, 8:55 am
     
  • Jonathan Kuminga tallies 17 with eight boards
    Jonathan Kuminga shot 5-of-11 from the field and 6-of-8 from the foul line in Tuesday's loss to the Mavericks, scoring 17 points with eight rebounds, one assist, and one 3-pointer in 22 minutes.

    Advice: Kuminga wasn't in the rotation for the first three games of this series, playing a total of five minutes (all in Game 1). That changed in Game 4, due in large part to the Warriors getting blown out during the first three quarters. Give Kuminga credit for taking advantage of his opportunity, as he and fellow rookie Moses Moody (10 points, two rebounds, two steals, and two 3-pointers in 23 minutes) were two of the reasons why Golden State was able to trim a 29-point margin down to eight. Did either give Steve Kerr something to think about regarding his rotation ahead of Thursday's Game 5? We'll see.  NBCSportsEDGE.com Tuesday, 9:07 pm
     
  • Stephen Curry scores 20 with eight assists Tuesday
    Stephen Curry finished Tuesday's 119-109 loss to the Mavericks with 20 points (7-of-16 FGs, 4-of-5 FTs), five rebounds, eight assists, one steal, and two 3-pointers in 33 minutes. 

    Advice: Curry and the rest of the starting lineup had relatively rough nights, as Dallas took a 29-point lead into the fourth quarter. He and the other main options were on the bench as the Warriors rallied during the final frame, with the visitors pulling to within eight before Dallas finally closed the door. Maybe Golden State was simply going through the motions with the idea that they were playing with "house money" after winning the first three games, but letting a wounded opponent hang around can be risky. Look for Curry and company to do their best to end the series Thursday night.  NBCSportsEDGE.com Tuesday, 9:02 pm
     
  • Butler says knee had nothing to do with poor Gm 4
    Heat wing Jimmy Butler said that the right knee injury that forced him to miss the second half of Game 3 had nothing to do with his poor performance in Game 4.

    Advice: “I’m straight. No excuse for how I played tonight … nothing to do with my knee,” Butler said. “I’ve just got to be better. I will be better. I’m not too worried about it.” Butler was miserable in Game 4 on Monday with just six points on 3-of-14 shooting in 27 minutes, but it wasn’t just him who struggled as the entire Miami starting unit scored 18 points on the evening as a whole. There’s no guarantee that Butler would even admit if his knee was bothering him because he’s one of the tougher guys in the league, or at least he appears to be -- keep in mind he hasn’t played more than 58 games in any season since his 2016-2017 campaign with the Bulls. We foresee Butler playing through the injury whether it’s bothering him or not, but if anything changes, we’ll keep you in the loop. He's also not listed on the injury report for Wednesday's Game 5 whatsoever, which is great news for the Heat. NBCSportsEDGE.com Tuesday, 3:44 pm
     
  • Tucker, Strus, Vincent all questionable for Game 5
    P.J. Tucker (left knee irritation), Max Strus (right hamstring strain) and Gabe Vincent (left hamstring strain) are all questionable to play in Game 5 against the Celtics on Wednesday.

    Advice: Tucker probably has the highest chance of missing tomorrow’s game out of this trio as he’s actually dealing with a real injury, but we all know how tough he is. Strus and Vincent continue to be permanent fixtures of Miami’s injury report for whatever reason, but as always, expect them out there. NBCSportsEDGE.com Tuesday, 2:40 pm
     
  • Kyle Lowry (left hamstring) questionable for Wed.
    Kyle Lowry (left hamstring strain) is currently listed as questionable to play in Wednesday’s Game 5 against the Celtics.

    Advice: Lowry has appeared in Miami’s last two games and has played 25.0 minutes on average in those two, but he’s still struggling mightily with his shot. Hamstring injuries do tend to linger and he’s not the youngest guy on the squad, so expect him to appear on all of Miami’s injury reports going forward. If Lowry doesn’t end up playing, Gabe Vincent will re-emerge as a decent DFS option. NBCSportsEDGE.com Tuesday, 2:36 pm
     
  • Tyler Herro, Kyle Lowry questionable for Game 5
    Tyler Herro (left groin strain) and Kyle Lowry (left hamstring strain) are both being listed as questionable to play in Game 5 against the Celtics on Wednesday.

    Advice: While Lowry figures to be a fixture of the injury report for as long as his Heat team is in contention, Herro’s injury is much newer. The Sixth Man of the Year did not play in Game 4 on Monday due to the groin issue, and it was reported earlier on Tuesday that it’s a type of injury that typically takes 2-to-4 weeks to return from, but he’s pushing to return this week. All of this is after Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said that he expects Herro to play in Game 5, so it’s really anybody’s guess what his official status will be. P.J. Tucker (left knee irritation), Max Strus (right hamstring strain) and Gabe Vincent (left hamstring strain) are all questionable as well but should be out there, while Jimmy Butler is thankfully nowhere to be seen on the injury report. NBCSportsEDGE.com Tuesday, 2:24 pm
     
  • Robert Williams (left knee) questionable for Gm 5
    Robert Williams (left knee soreness) is being deemed questionable to play in Game 5 against the Heat on Wednesday.

    Advice: Williams played in Game 4, but he only played 19 minutes as his never-ending knee injury appeared to be bothering him by the time the third quarter came around. Luckily, the Heat did not come out to play so Williams wasn’t needed for any more floor time than that, and he could very well be a true game-time decision for Game 5. If Williams can’t go, Al Horford gets a decent boost while Grant Williams should play some more, and Heat center Bam Adebayo also gets a boost as well -- in the one game Rob Williams missed, Bam posted a 31/10/6/4/1 line but has averaged just 8.3 points per game in three games in which Williams has appeared. NBCSportsEDGE.com Tuesday, 2:09 pm
     
  • Marcus Smart, Robert Williams both iffy for Game 5
    Marcus Smart (right ankle sprain) and Robert Williams (left knee soreness) are both being listed as questionable to play in Game 5 against the Heat on Wednesday.

    Advice: Smart did not play in Game 4 on Monday, but the Celtics won in blowout fashion thanks to Jayson Tatum bouncing back and the Heat starters combining for just 18 points on the evening. Williams did play last night, but he looked a bit gimpy in the third quarter and checked out for good with 7:26 left in that quarter and only ended up playing 19 minutes (which is all they needed him for). Derrick White filled in nicely for Smart on Monday and would be worth a look in DFS yet again if Smart can’t play, while Al Horford and Grant Williams would be the main beneficiaries as they’d soak up the majority of Time Lord’s minutes. NBCSportsEDGE.com Tuesday, 2:05 pm
     
  • Bam Adebayo stinks it up w/ flat showing in Game 4
    Bam Adebayo mustered just nine points, six boards, two assists and three turnovers in Monday’s 20-point loss to Boston in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals.

    Advice: Adebayo has now sandwiched his 31/10/6/4/1 masterpiece in Game 3 with a trio of duds in this series. The difference in Game 3? No Robert Williams. Adebayo has been huge when the opposing starting center is out, as evidenced by his big showings in Games 1-2 of the Eastern Conference semis with Joel Embiid sidelined. Once Embiid returned, Bam’s big lines were suddenly gone. Adebayo has struggled this postseason and really only found his rhythm against backup centers. He - and the rest of his team - will need to be much better in Game 5 in front of the home crowd with a 3-2 series advantage on the line. NBCSportsEDGE.com Monday, 8:45 pm
     
  • Victor Oladipo shines as lone bright spot Monday
    Victor Oladipo went off for 23 points, six assists, four rebounds and four triples in Monday’s 102-82 loss to the Celtics.

    Advice: With Tyler Herro out of action, Dipo was the next man up, and he answered the call. The Heat couldn’t get anything going in the first quarter and sat at a single point until Oladipo hit a three with three and a half minutes to go. He found his offensive groove early and often in this one and shined as one of the lone bright spots on an otherwise depressing evening. If Herro continues to miss time, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Dipo get some extra opportunities and take on a larger offensive workload. We’ve seen flashes of Indiana Oladipo, and Miami’s move to get him is looking smarter and smarter with each passing game. NBCSportsEDGE.com Monday, 8:34 pm
     
  • Jimmy can't get buckets: Butler scores 6 in loss
    Jimmy Butler ended Monday’s ugly loss with just six points on 3-of-14 shooting, adding seven boards and an assist.

    Advice: In Games 1 and 2, Jimmy Buckets posted 70 points, 15 boards, eight dimes, five steals and three blocks. He injured his knee in Game 3, and while the injury may have nagged him Monday, his poor performance can’t be explained away so simply. The entire Heat team was horrendous, starting out 0-of-14 from the field, and Butler and Co. appeared flat. Boston’s defense was excellent too, so we’ll chalk this one up to an outlier. The six points are Butler’s fewest in a playoff game since 2013 and third-fewest in a playoff game in which he played at least 27 minutes. Expect a bounce-back performance when the Heat head home for Game 5 on Wednesday. NBCSportsEDGE.com Monday, 8:23 pm
     
  • Big Bob Williams neutralizes Bam in Game 4 return
    Robert Williams returned to the court Monday and provided 12 points, nine boards and two swats as the Celtics took the Heat down 102-82 in Game 4.

    Advice: Williams missed Game 3 due to a lingering knee issue, and he’s been sidelined for five of the Celtics’ last seven. He only logged 19 minutes in this one, as Boston raced out to a monster lead and never looked back. Williams doesn’t need a ton of time on the court to make an impact, and Bam Adebayo’s nine-point, six-rebound clunker is proof after Adebayo went off for 31/10/6 last game. Williams is likely going to be a permanent fixture on Boston’s injury report for as long as they’re still in contention. NBCSportsEDGE.com Monday, 8:14 pm
     
  • Jayson Tatum scores 31 as C's obliterate Heat
    Jayson Tatum piled up 31 points, eight rebounds, five assists and two blocks as the Celtics comfortably handled the Heat.

    Advice: Tatum went for just 10 points in Saturday’s loss, scoring two points and committing three turnovers in the second half of the close contest. He bounced back in a big way in Game 3, shaking off the poor showing and leading the Celtics to a massive, series-tying victory. Boston is now 5-0 in games following a loss this postseason, and Tatum has averaged 32.6 points in those contests. Boston will have a chance to go up 3-2 in the series with a win in South Beach on Wednesday. NBCSportsEDGE.com Monday, 8:08 pm
     
  • Butler, Adebayo, Strus, Tucker, Lowry starting
    Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo, Max Strus, P.J. Tucker and Kyle Lowry will start Game 4 against the Celtics on Monday.

    Advice: As expected, all of the players on the Heat's injury report are good to go. With Tyler Herro out of action, expect more minutes for Gabe Vincent and Caleb Martin off the bench. NBCSportsEDGE.com Monday, 5:08 pm
     
  • Marcus Smart (ankle) ruled out for Game 4
    Marcus Smart (right ankle) has been ruled out for Game 4 on Monday vs. Miami.

    Advice: Smart has seen some increased swelling in his sprained right ankle since suffering the injury on Saturday, and he was sporting a major limp when he arrived to the arena tonight, so this could wind up being a multi-game absence. Derrick White will likely find himself in the first unit with Smart watching from the sidelines, and there will be more minutes available for Payton Pritchard. NBCSportsEDGE.com Monday, 4:26 pm
     
  • Butler, Lowry, Strus, Vincent, Tucker probable
    Jimmy Butler (knee), Kyle Lowry (hamstring), Max Strus (hamstring), Gabe Vincent (hamstring) and P.J. Tucker (hamstring) all intend to play in Game 4 vs. Boston on Monday.

    Advice: Miami will never miss an opportunity to list guys as questionable, but all these guys are expected to play tonight. NBCSportsEDGE.com Monday, 4:08 pm
     
  • Jayson Tatum (shoulder) good to go for Game 4
    Jayson Tatum (right shoulder) is good to go for Game 4 on Monday vs. Miami.

    Advice: Tatum tweaked his shoulder during Game 3, but he was able to play through it and was listed as probable for this game, so there was never much worry about his availability. He'll look to bounce back tonight from a tough Game 3 loss in which he converted just three of his 14 shot attempts. NBCSportsEDGE.com Monday, 3:57 pm
     
  • Marcus Smart (ankle) iffy for Game 4 on Monday
    Marcus Smart (right ankle) is questionable for Monday's Game 4 matchup with Miami.

    Advice: Smart is being listed as questionable for tonight's game, but he seems to be closer to doubtful, with Adrian Wojnarowski hinting that it's unlikely Smart will get out there. While he was able to play through the ankle issue on Saturday, it seems it's gotten worse for him since then and might keep him out of tonight's game. That would mean more opportunity for Derrick White and Payton Pritchard. Stay tuned. NBCSportsEDGE.com Monday, 3:27 pm
     
  • Robert Williams (knee) expected to play in Game 4
    Robert Williams (left knee soreness) is expected to be available for Game 4 on Monday vs. Miami.

    Advice: The Time Lord wasn't able to suit up for Game 3 as he continues to experience soreness in his surgically repaired knee, but it sounds like he'll be able to get back out there tonight, which should result in Daniel Theis returning to the second unit and Grant Williams' minutes could dip a bit. NBCSportsEDGE.com Monday, 2:40 pm
     
  • Marcus Smart wins NBA's Hustle Award for 2nd time
    Marcus Smart has won the NBA's Hustle Award for the 2021-2022 season, the league announced on Monday.

    Advice: Smart won the award for the second time in his carer, becoming the first two-time winner since the award debuted in 2016-2017. He also won the award in the 2018-2019 season. He adds this honor to the Defensive Player of the Year honor and the 1st-Team all defense nod that he has garnered this season. Smart is experiencing some swelling in his right ankle and is currently considered questionable for Monday night's Game 4 against Miami.  NBCSportsEDGE.com Monday, 10:58 am
     
  • Tyler Herro (groin) expected to play in Game 5
    Tyler Herro (left groin strain) says that the plan is for him to be available for Game 5 on Wednesday.

    Advice: Heat coach Erik Spoelstra painted a picture that Herro wanted to play in Game 4 on Monday night, but that the coaching staff decided against it. “This is the time of the year everybody wants to play," Spoelstra said. "But there is also a responsibility to the athlete & their health & we have to be disciplined to that & sometimes these are tough decisions.” The Heat have a 2-1 lead over the Celtics so there is no need to force anything at the moment. Expect Herro to be good to go in Game 5 in Miami. NBCSportsEDGE.com Monday, 9:29 am
     
  • Jimmy Butler (knee) will try to play Monday night
    Jimmy Butler, P.J. Tucker, Max Strus, Gabe Vincent, and Kyle Lowry will all warm up with the intent of playing in Monday night's Game 4.

    Advice: All five of these guys will warm up with the intent of playing on Monday night. Expect all of them to be in the lineup and at least try to give it a go in Game 4. Butler missed the second half of Saturday's Game 3, so there is a chance he is still experiencing a good deal of pain. We will monitor his status throughout the game and of course as the series progresses.  NBCSportsEDGE.com Monday, 9:09 am
     
  • Tyler Herro (groin) ruled out Monday night vs BOS.
    Tyler Herro (left groin strain) has been ruled out for Monday's Game 4 against the Celtics.

    Advice: Herro will not play in Game 4 on Monday night, and the Heat said that Jimmy Butler (knee), Kyle Lowry (hamstring), Max Strus (hamstring), Gabe Vincent (hamstring), and P.J. Tucker (knee) will all warm up with the intent to play. Butler was ruled out for the second half of Saturday's Game 4 victory while the other four were able to play with no complications. Butler was seen walking a bit gingerly at shootaround, so his status is likely the most up in the air, but knowing him, he will probably give it a go, unless he is in some real serious pain. We will have more updates as we get closer to tip-off. NBCSportsEDGE.com Monday, 8:52 am
     
  • Stephen Curry goes for 31 & 11 in Game 3 win Sun.
    Stephen Curry scored 31 points on 10-of-20 shooting (5-of-10 3-pointers) to go with 11 assists, five rebounds, and three turnovers as the Warriors beat the Mavericks 109-100 in game 3 to take a 3-0 lead on Sunday night.

    Advice: The Warriors used another big third quarter to pull away from the Mavericks and they were able to hold on in the fourth to push the Mavericks to the brink of elimination. Curry tallied his 47th career 30-point playoff game, which broke a tie with Dirk Nowitzki and moved him into eleventh place on the all-time list. He has now scored over 30 in four of his last seven games, including two straight, and he will try to make it three as the Warriors look to close out the Mavericks in Dallas on Tuesday and get back to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2019. NBCSportsEDGE.com Sunday, 8:55 pm
     
  • Haynes: Jimmy Butler (knee) intends to play Monday
    Jimmy Butler (right knee inflammation) intends to play in Monday's game against the Celtics, according to Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports. 

    Advice: Butler, who is officially listed as questionable for Game 4, sat out the second half of Saturday's Game 3 victory due to his inflamed knee. According to the report, Butler has experienced issues with his right knee throughout the course of this season. If he is either limited or cannot play on Monday, Victor Oladipo would be in line for a significant increase in playing time.  NBCSportsEDGE.com Sunday, 2:41 pm
     
  • Jayson Tatum (shoulder) probable for Game 4 Monday
    Jayson Tatum (right cervical nerve impingement) is probable for Monday's game against the Heat. 

    Advice: Tatum suffered what appeared to be a stinger during the second half of Game 3, but he was able to return to the game. Tatum being listed as probable for Game 4 is obviously great news as far as the Celtics are concerned. If he suffers a setback of some sort, that would put even more responsibility on the shoulders of Jaylen Brown.  NBCSportsEDGE.com Sunday, 2:04 pm
     
  • P.J. Tucker, Strus, Vincent questionable for Gm 4
    P.J. Tucker (left knee inflammation), Max Strus (right hamstring strain), and Gabe Vincent (left hamstring strain) are all listed as questionable for Monday's game against the Celtics. 

    Advice: All three were able to play in Saturday's Game 3 victory, with Tucker and Strus remaining in the starting lineup. As for Vincent, his role changed due to the return of Kyle Lowry. Vincent moved back to the bench, which does him no favors as far as DFS value is concerned. Look for all three to be available on Monday, as this has been the case on multiple occasions throughout the postseason.  NBCSportsEDGE.com Sunday, 1:42 pm
     
  • Kyle Lowry (hamstring) questionable for Game 4
    Kyle Lowry (left hamstring strain) is listed as questionable for Monday's game against the Celtics. 

    Advice: Lowry was able to play 29 minutes in Miami's Game 3 victory, but he is once again listed on the injury report. Included in the return were multiple trips back to the locker room in an attempt to keep the hamstring warm, so Lowry leaving the bench area should not be cause for alarm. If Lowry suffers a setback, Gabe Vincent would be next in line at the point guard position.  NBCSportsEDGE.com Sunday, 1:39 pm
     
  • Tyler Herro (groin) questionable for Game 4 vs BOS
    Tyler Herro (left groin strain) is questionable for Monday's game against the Celtics. 

    Advice: Herro was seen on the sideline with his upper left leg wrapped, and it was originally believed that he was dealing with a quad issue. The Sixth Man of the Year is now on the injury report with a groin strain, and it's anyone's guess if he'll be able to play in Game 4. If Herro has to sit, that would open the door for Duncan Robinson to re-enter the rotation.  NBCSportsEDGE.com Sunday, 1:36 pm
     
  • Jimmy Butler (knee) questionable for Game 4 Monday
    Jimmy Butler (right knee inflammation) is listed as questionable for Monday's game against the Celtics. 

    Advice: Butler's knee flared up during Saturday's Game 3 victory, and he missed the entire second half as a result. Should he not be able to play on Monday, that would free up additional minutes for Victor Oladipo, who did not see any action during the first half of Game 3. Oladipo was especially impactful on the defensive end of the floor, as he tallied four steals.  NBCSportsEDGE.com Sunday, 1:33 pm
     
  • Marcus Smart has swelling in right ankle
    Marcus Smart has swelling in his right ankle, and the Celtics will see how he feels on Monday before determining his status for Game 4.

    Advice: Smart twisted his ankle pretty bad in Game 3 but wasn't out of the game long. It must've been adrenaline keeping him in, because his status is now up in the air. If he can't play, Derrick White and Payton Pritchard will be relied on to make up for his absence. NBCSportsEDGE.com Sunday, 10:40 am
     
  • Spo: No update on Jimmy Butler or Tyler Herro,
    Erik Spoelstra didn't have an update on Jimmy Butler (right knee inflammation) or Tyler Herro (quad) on Sunday morning, but he's hoping to have one Monday morning before Game 4.

    Advice: Butler left Game 3 early, while Herro didn't close out the game because of these injuries. Though it was reported that Butler's wasn't considered serious, there is a chance that both of them miss Game 4. We likely won't know for sure until closer to game-time, because the Heat love listing everyone as questionable. If they don't play, Victor Oladipo and Caleb Martin would help make up for the loss of Butler, along with some extra contributions from Gabe Vincent. We could even see a Duncan Robinson sighting. NBCSportsEDGE.com Sunday, 9:34 am
     
  • Robert Williams (knee) considered 'day-to-day'
    Robert Williams (left knee soreness) is considered "day-to-day" after missing Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals on Saturday.

    Advice: Williams has missed five of the last seven games for the Heat because of issues with his left knee after missing a month because of a meniscus tear. Daniel Theis got the start in place of Williams, but he only played 11 minutes. Grant Williams filled the majority of the minutes, playing 39 off the bench. If Robert Williams misses more time, Grant Williams and Al Horford will fill the majority of the frontcourt minutes. NBCSportsEDGE.com Sunday, 7:02 am
     
  • Tyler Herro dealing with quad injury
    Heat sixth man Tyler Herro is dealing with a quad injury and was seen with a wrap/ice around his leg at the end of Game 3 against the Celtics on Saturday.

    Advice: Coach Erik Spoelstra said after the game that he didn’t have an update on the injury, so we’ll probably have to wait and see what the injury report tells us ahead of Game 4 on Monday. Spo also said the reason he stuck with Victor Oladipo down the stretch was partly because of Herro’s injury and partly because Oladipo was playing better. It’s clear to see in Herro’s play that he’s not quite right, as he’s averaged just 9.5 points per game on 0-of-9 from range over his last two and was miserable this evening with a 4-of-15 shooting clip in the win. Jimmy Butler didn’t play in the second half due to right knee inflammation and Kyle Lowry and P.J. Tucker are coming off of injuries as well, so tomorrow’s day of rest is going to be huge for everyone involved. We still believe Herro and Butler will play Monday, but we can’t know for sure at this moment. NBCSportsEDGE.com Saturday, 9:01 pm
     
  • Jimmy Butler’s knee injury not considered serious
    According to a league source, Jimmy Butler’s right knee injury is not considered to be serious and he could be back for Game 4 on Monday.

    Advice: The team is calling it right knee inflammation, and Butler was ruled out before the second half even started completely out of nowhere. This is an injury that Butler dealt with during the regular season as well, which isn’t the best news, but it looks like there’s a decent chance he’s out there for a crucial Game 4. Heat coach Erik Spoelstra confirmed that an MRI won't be needed, but did admit that Butler didn't have his normal explosive burst tonight, and the trainers made the ultimate call to sit him for the second half. NBCSportsEDGE.com Saturday, 8:46 pm
     
  • Victor Oladipo starts second half for Jimmy Butler
    Victor Oladipo started the second half of Saturday’s Game 3 win over the Celtics and ended his night with five points, one assist and four steals in 20 minutes.

    Advice: Oladipo didn’t even play in the first half but started the second half for Jimmy Butler (right knee inflammation), and he had some incredible defensive plays despite a quiet scoring night. His four steals also helped the team tally a franchise playoff-high 19 steals in this game, thanks to four steals each by Bam, Lowry and Dipo. Butler’s injury isn’t believed to be serious, but if he has to miss time, we could see a lot more Oladipo along with guys like Duncan Robinson and Caleb Martin. Tyler Herro, who was miserable with eight points on 4-of-15 shooting, will also need to step up in the scenario that Jimmy Buckets is forced to miss any time. NBCSportsEDGE.com Saturday, 8:39 pm
     
  • Kyle Lowry looks solid in return to action on Sat.
    Kyle Lowry (left hamstring strain) played 29 minutes in his return to action on Saturday, recording 11 points on 4-of-11 shooting, one rebound, six assists, four steals, two 3-pointers and two turnovers in a Game 3 win over the Celtics.

    Advice: Lowry missed his last four games and had missed eight of his last ten coming into Saturday, but he looked fresh out there and you could easily spot a difference in Miami’s pace with him in action. He helped the Heat get off to a dominant 39-18 start through the first quarter of action, which was ultimately enough to get the win and go up 2-1 in these Eastern Conference Finals. There was a bit of worry when Lowry headed to the locker room after his first stint, but it was confirmed that he was just in the back keeping his hamstring warm while off the court. Also, with Jimmy Butler (right knee inflammation) ruled out of the game before the second half started, Lowry and the rest of this Heat roster will have to step up in a big way if Butler has to miss any games beyond tonight. Assuming he suffers no setbacks, Lowry and the Heat will look to take a commanding 3-1 lead when these two teams face off in Game 4 on Monday. Gabe Vincent returned to a bench role in Lowry’s return and predictably flopped with just three points in 19 minutes, and his days of DFS relevance appear to be over. NBCSportsEDGE.com Saturday, 8:33 pm
     
  • Marcus Smart scores 16, survives ankle injury
    Marcus Smart played 37 minutes before fouling out in a Game 3 loss to the Heat on Saturday, tallying 16 points on 6-of-11 shooting (3-of-5 FTs) to go with four rebounds, seven assists, one 3-pointer and four turnovers.

    Advice: Smart twisted his ankle pretty badly to start the third quarter and needed help to the locker room, but he came back rather quickly and drilled a triple that got TD Garden roaring. His ankle was quite literally sideways and it seemed like he could not only miss the rest of this game but possibly more time, but the tough-as-nails Smart didn’t want to go down easy. It’s a story that’s worth keeping an eye on in case it swells up overnight, so we’ll let you know if he pops up on Boston’s injury report ahead of Game 4 on Monday. Jayson Tatum also survived a shoulder injury late in this one, with Miami’s Jimmy Butler exiting before the second half due to a right knee issue. This game was madness, to say the least. NBCSportsEDGE.com Saturday, 8:30 pm
     
  • Jaylen Brown scores playoff career-high 40 points
    Jaylen Brown scored a playoff career-high 40 points (14-of-20 FGs, 9-of-12 FTs) in Saturday’s 109-103 loss to the Heat, also chipping in nine rebounds, one assist, one steal, one block, three treys and seven turnovers in 42 minutes.

    Advice: Brown did a great job scoring the ball, but many of his turnovers were because of him losing his handle, particularly in the second half (the Celtics committed 23 turnovers tonight as a team, so Brown wasn’t alone). On a night when Jayson Tatum (10 points on 3-of-14 shooting) really struggled, Brown helped pick up the slack but ultimately didn’t have enough help to get a win. Miami had a dominant 39-18 first quarter to blow the game open from the opening whistle, and while Boston got it within striking distance late, they were just outplayed in most areas of the game tonight and were making far too many mistakes. This series has been bizarre to say the least and just became more interesting with Jimmy Butler (right knee inflammation) ruled out before the beginning of the second half, and one has to think the Celtics will be heavier favorites if Butler has to miss more time. Game 4 will be played on Monday, and there’s truly no telling what that one is going to look like. NBCSportsEDGE.com Saturday, 8:28 pm
     
  • Tatum struggles in Game 3, injures shoulder late
    Jayson Tatum suffered a right shoulder injury in a Game 3 loss to the Heat on Saturday, but finished the game and ended with 10 points on 3-of-14 shooting, six boards, four assists, one 3-pointer and six turnovers in 41 minutes.

    Advice: It looked like Tatum reached awkwardly and he was down in a lot of pain for multiple possessions, eventually heading to the locker room with around five minutes left in the fourth quarter -- coach Ime Udoka was calling it a stinger after the game. He soon returned to the game with 3:40 left in the game, and the never-ending chaos of this game entailed Tatum and Marcus Smart avoiding injuries, and Miami’s Jimmy Butler being ruled out for the entire second half due to right knee inflammation. It wasn’t Tatum’s night even before the injury, recording twice as many turnovers (6) as shots made (3), but the shoulder is going to be the main area of concern by far. We’ll be sure to let you know if Tatum shows up on the injury report ahead of Game 4, which will take place on Monday. NBCSportsEDGE.com Saturday, 8:24 pm
     
  • Bam goes nuts with 31/10/6/4/1 line in Game 3 win
    Bam Adebayo kicked it up several notches in a 109-103 Game 3 win over the Celtics on Saturday, posting a huge line of 31 points (15-of-22 FGs), 10 rebounds, six assists, four steals, one block and just one turnover in 42 minutes.

    Advice: That’s more like it. After averaging just eight points on five shot attempts through the first two games of this series, Bam reached both of those numbers within the first five minutes of the game. At shootaround, Heat coach Erik Spoelstra wanted Bam to be more aggressive, saying “[w]e want him more involved, and I have to do a better job of that, of making sure that he's involved, engaged, getting us to our triggers ... He's a very important part of our offense and how we function." Adebayo listened very well and was the most aggressive we’ve seen in this series by a mile. We’ll see if he keeps it up for Game 4 on Monday. NBCSportsEDGE.com Saturday, 8:21 pm
     
  • Lowry, Vincent, Strus, Tucker available for Game 3
    Kyle Lowry (hamstring), Gabe Vincent (hamstring), Max Strus (hamstring) and P.J. Tucker (knee) are all available for Saturday's Game 3 in Boston.

    Advice: Lowry has missed the last four games, but none of Vincent, Tucker or Strus have missed any time in the playoffs despite being permanent fixtures on the injury report. NBCSportsEDGE.com Saturday, 5:11 pm
     
  • Robert Williams (knee) expected to miss Game 3
    Robert Williams is expected to sit out of Saturday's Game 3 against the Heat due to lingering left knee soreness.

    Advice: Time Lord missed the last four games of the Milwaukee series due to his knee, and he's been on the injury report since returning for the first two games of the Eastern Conference Finals. Expect Williams to remain there for as long as Boston is in the playoffs, and count on Grant Williams and Daniel Theis logging more minutes in his absence. NBCSportsEDGE.com Saturday, 3:24 pm
     
  • Robert Williams (knee) questionable for Game 3
    Robert Williams (left knee soreness) is considered questionable for Game 3 against the Heat on Saturday.

    Advice: This seems like it'll be an on and off issue as long as the Celtics are in the playoffs. If Williams isn't able to play, Grant Williams should slide right back into the starting unit with Daniel Theis seeing a role off the bench. Hopefully Robert Williams will be able to resolve this issue this off-season, so it isn't an issue heading into next season. If he plays, he shouldn't have a problem approaching a double-double with multiple blocks. NBCSportsEDGE.com Saturday, 9:55 am
     
  • P.J. Tucker will warm up 'with intention to play'
    Erik Spoelstra told reporters on Saturday that P.J. Tucker will warm up "with the intention to play" in Game 3 in Boston.

    Advice: Tucker left Game 2 after playing just 22 minutes and had an MRI done on his knee on Friday. Barring a setback during warmups, Tucker will be out there making life difficult for Jayson Tatum. If there is a setback, Caleb Martin, Victor Oladipo, and Dewayne Dedmon could all be candidates to slide into the starting unit. NBCSportsEDGE.com Saturday, 8:44 am
     
  • Lowry, Tucker warming up 'with intention to play'
    Erik Spoelstra said that Kyle Lowry (left hamstring strain) and P.J. Tucker (left knee contusion) will both warm up "with the intention to play" in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals in Boston on Saturday.

    Advice: Lowry is set to return after missing the last four games and eight of the last ten. Barring a setback during warmups, it appears that Lowry will return to the starting lineup. That should return Gabe Vincent to a bench role, though he'll likely still see a decent chunk of minutes, especially if Lowry's hamstring flares up again. Tucker isn't on track to miss any time after leaving Game 2 early with the knee contusion. NBCSportsEDGE.com Saturday, 8:35 am
     
  • Stephen Curry posts 32/8/5 line vs. DAL
    Stephen Curry put up 32 points with eight rebounds, five dimes and six triples in Friday’s Game 2 comeback win vs. Dallas.

    Advice: The Mavericks have defended Curry better than pretty much every other team in the NBA this season, but he seemed to find his groove early tonight with 20 points by halftime and kept it going throughout. The Warriors will also be thrilled with the lift they have gotten from Jordan Poole in this series as he had 23 points tonight for a combined 40 points on 15-of-22 FGs through two games. NBCSportsEDGE.com Friday, 8:43 pm
     
  • All-D Team: Smart, Bridges, Giannis, JJJ, Gobert
    Marcus Smart (BOS), Mikal Bridges (PHO), Giannis Antetokounmpo (MIL), Rudy Gobert (UTA) and Jaren Jackson Jr. (MEM) have been selected for the 2021-2022 NBA All-Defensive First Team.

    Advice: With the exception of Giannis, all five of these guys were top five in DPOY voting, but Giannis was selected for the First Team whereas Bam Adebayo (MIA), who was fourth in DPOY voting, was placed on the Second Team. Joining Bam on the Second Team are Draymond Green (GSW), Matisse Thybulle (PHI), Robert Williams (BOS) and Jrue Holiday (MIL), with Boston’s Al Horford being the only player in the top-10 for DPOY voting to not make either team. Congrats to all of the above, and it’s no coincidence that four of these 10 players are still fighting for a championship as we speak. You can check out the full voting results here. NBCSportsEDGE.com Friday, 5:23 pm
     
  • P.J. Tucker (left knee) questionable for Game 3
    P.J. Tucker (left knee contusion) is officially being listed as questionable to play in Saturday’s Game 3 against the Celtics.

    Advice: Tucker played just 22 minutes in last night’s ugly Game 2 loss before being forced to exit, and he’s in jeopardy of being in street clothes for this one. Miami will have no problem replacing Tucker’s offensive production if he is downgraded to out, but his defense will be hard to make up for. Caleb Martin should play more if Tucker doesn’t play, but he’ll still remain a risky DFS option for Saturday’s slate. Kyle Lowry (hamstring) is also iffy to play tomorrow after missing his last four games. NBCSportsEDGE.com Friday, 2:28 pm
     
  • Kyle Lowry, P.J. Tucker both questionable for Gm 3
    Kyle Lowry (left hamstring strain) and P.J. Tucker (left knee contusion) are both being deemed questionable for Game 3 against the Celtics on Saturday.

    Advice: Both players traveled with the team to Boston, and while Lowry has missed the last four games (and eight over his last ten this postseason), Tucker’s injury came in last night’s Game 2 loss. The questionable tag is actually a pretty good sign for him, and considering how tough he is, he could very well be out there tomorrow. If Lowry finally plays, Gabe Vincent will head back to the bench and lose most of his value, and if Tucker does not play, it could mean more minutes for a guy like Caleb Martin. Vincent (left hamstring strain) and Max Strus (right hamstring strain) are both listed as questionable again, but the team always does this and they’ll be out there tomorrow. NBCSportsEDGE.com Friday, 2:24 pm
     
  • Kyle Lowry (hamstring) travelling for Game 3
    Kyle Lowry (left hamstring strain) will travel with the team to Boston for Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals.

    Advice: Lowry still may not play, and if he does, he won't be 100%. However, if things go bad in Game 3, he could make a return in Game 4. The injury report will come out later, so we'll know more then. However, Gabe Vincent's starting spot should be safe. NBCSportsEDGE.com Friday, 10:41 am
     
  • P.J. Tucker (knee) travelling to Boston for Game 3
    P.J. Tucker (left knee contusion) is travelling with the Heat to Boston ahead of Game 3 on Saturday.

    Advice: The injury report is expected later tonight, so this doesn't mean Tucker will play. However, the injury wasn't so bad that they didn't want him to travel. He could go and just support the team. If that were the case, the Heat would struggle to find a suitable replacement. They could roll out a smaller lineup with Victor Oladipo. They could try a big lineup to match Boston and start Dewayne Dedmon. Or they could go with Caleb Martin, who is probably the best option for guarding Boston's wings. Kyle Lowry also traveled with the team, but we'll let you know if there's any real update on him once the official injury report comes out later. NBCSportsEDGE.com Friday, 10:38 am
     
  • P.J. Tucker leaves early w/ knee contusion in Gm 2
    P.J. Tucker was forced out of Thursday's loss due to a left knee contusion and finished with five points, four rebounds and an assist across 22 minutes.

    Advice: The knee contusion isn't to be taken lightly, as it could hold Tucker out 1-5 games. His prototypical 3-and-D play and tenacious attitude will surely be missed on the court for any number of contests he's forced to miss. Expect more minutes for Caleb Martin in Tucker's absence. NBCSportsEDGE.com Thursday, 8:43 pm
     
  • What can Brown do for you: Jaylen goes for 24/8/3
    Jaylen Brown accounted for 24 points, eight rebounds, four triples and three assists as the Celtics took down the Heat in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals on Thursday.

    Advice: It was a great night for Boston’s “Big 3” as Brown, Marcus Smart and Jayson Tatum accounted for 75 of the team’s 127 points in the 25-point victory. Brown finished with exactly 24 points for the second straight game and teased another double-double in the process. Brown has operated as the Celtics’ best scorer in spurts throughout the playoffs, and he’s averaging over 22 points and nearly seven rebounds per game. Boston will try to take a 2-1 series lead when the teams clash in Boston fo Game 3 on Saturday. NBCSportsEDGE.com Thursday, 8:36 pm
     
  • Jayson Tatum scores 27 in Game 2 rout over Miami
    Jayson Tatum finished with 27 points on 8-of-13 shooting and added five rebounds, five assists, four triples and a steal in Thursday’s commanding win over Miami.

    Advice: Oh, mercy! That’s two big games in a row for Tatum, who went off for 29 points, eight boards, six dimes, four steals and a block in Tuesday’s loss. Miami boasts a formidable defense, but the Heat haven’t had an answer for the All-Star forward who’s averaging 28.3 points, 6.1 assists, 5.8 rebounds, 3.4 triples and 2.5 stocks in the postseason. Expect him to be at his best when the Celtics head home for Game 3 on Saturday. NBCSportsEDGE.com Thursday, 8:22 pm
     
  • Tyler Herro M.I.A for MIA in ugly Game 2 loss
    Tyler Herro mustered 11 points on 11 shots and tallied three assists, a rebound and a block as the Heat fell to the Celtics 127-102 on Thursday.

    Advice: It was a game to forget for more than one Heat player, and Tyler Herro turned in a hot, stinking dud. After going for 18/8/3/1 in Game 1, the Sixth Man of the Year couldn’t find any rhythm on offense and wilted after scoring seven of his 11 points in the first quarter. He's run a bit hot and cold in the playoffs, but he’ll need to be better than this for Saturday’s Game 3 in Boston and more consistent for the rest of the series if Miami hopes to emerge victorious. NBCSportsEDGE.com Thursday, 8:10 pm
     
  • Stephen Curry scores 21 w/ 12 boards in Game 1 win
    Stephen Curry scored 21 points (7-of-16 FGs, 4-of-7 FTs) with 12 rebounds, four assists, one steal, one block and three triples in Wednesday's blowout Game 1 win over Dallas. 

    Advice: This will be a brutal matchup for Curry and it showed early tonight, as the Mavs will throw double teams at him and force the ball out of his hands as much as possible. During the regular season, Curry averaged just 20.0 points in four games vs. Dallas while shooting 38% from the field and 29% from the line. He certainly seemed uncomfortable in the first quarter tonight, but he gradually got himself going and got a big lift from his teammates as well. NBCSportsEDGE.com Wednesday, 8:18 pm
     
  • Kyle Lowry (left hamstring) won’t play in Game 2
    Kyle Lowry (left hamstring strain) has officially been ruled out of Game 2 against the Celtics on Thursday.

    Advice: Given that Lowry only went through some light shooting in practice today, this shouldn’t shock anyone. Miami’s point guard will miss his fourth straight contest and his eighth total of the postseason, and he could still be a ways away for all we know. Per usual, Gabe Vincent, who is technically questionable but should play, will start for Lowry and be worth a look in DFS tournaments.  NBCSportsEDGE.com Wednesday, 2:39 pm
     
  • Robert Williams (leg) 'ready to roll' for Game 2
    Robert Williams told reporters on Wednesday that he is "ready to roll" for Game 2 against the Heat on Thursday.

    Advice: Williams left Game 1 early with a left leg issue that ended up just being cramps. He'll play his usual minutes load in Game 2 and will be even more vital to Boston's success with Al Horford still sidelined. NBCSportsEDGE.com Wednesday, 9:14 am
     
  • Nets GM remains noncommittal about Kyrie Irving
    Nets GM Sean Marks remains noncommittal about Kyrie Irving's future with Brooklyn, telling reporters, "We’ll see if it’s the right fit for both sides."

    Advice: “You want people here to be part of something bigger than themselves," Marks said. "It’s a team sports team game. It’s not individuals ... We want to avoid the drama, we want to avoid the distractions." Kyrie can opt into a one-year deal at $36.9 million for 2022-23, or ink a longer-term deal with Brooklyn worth more than $245 million over five years, but that's assuming the Nets still want him as a franchise pillar. Fantasy GMs should be equally wary, considering Kyrie is averaging 55.5 games played in his 11 seasons. NBCSportsEDGE.com Wednesday, 4:46 am
     
  • Jaylen Brown struggles, C's collapse in 2nd half
    Jaylen Brown hit 7-of-17 shots, four 3-pointers and 6-of-10 free throws for 24 points, 10 rebounds, three assists and a steal in 43 minutes of Tuesday's Game 1 loss to the Heat. 

    Advice: Brown got his free throw shooting under control late but really struggled from the line early and didn't shoot it well from the floor. The Celtics put up an admirable fight without Al Horford (COVID) and Marcus Smart (foot), but had a third-quarter meltdown that allowed the Heat to go on a 22-2 run to start it and Miami never looked back. Game 2 is Thursday night in Miami.  NBCSportsEDGE.com Tuesday, 8:52 pm
     
  • Jayson Tatum's 29 not enough in Game 1 loss @ Heat
    Jayson Tatum hit 10-of-21 shots, two 3-pointers and 7-of-9 free throws for 29 points, eight rebounds, six assists, four steals, a block and seven turnovers in 44 minutes of Tuesday's 118-107 Game 1 loss at Miami. 

    Advice: Tatum and the Celtics held a 62-54 halftime lead and looked to be in control of the game, but the Heat then went on a 22-2 run to start the third quarter and finished it with a 39-14 win to the put the game away. The Heat forced Tatum into a ridiculous six third-quarter turnovers and the Celtics never recovered. In short, Tatum is going to have to do a better job of taking care of the ball going forward in this series.  NBCSportsEDGE.com Tuesday, 8:39 pm
     
  • Tyler Herro cools off in second half but Heat win
    Tyler Herro hit 7-of-15 shots, a 3-pointer and 3-of-3 free throws for 18 points, eight rebounds, three assists and a steal in Tuesday's Game 1 win over the Celtics. 

    Advice: Herro had 15 first-half points but didn't score in the third quarter, when the Heat went on a massive 39-14 run, but helped keep the Heat in the game when Boston was running the show in the first half. Max Strus added 11 points and three triples tonight and the Heat will look to take a 2-0 lead in the series on Thursday night.  NBCSportsEDGE.com Tuesday, 8:35 pm
     
  • P.J. Tucker plays through foot/ankle/calf issues
    P.J. Tucker played 31 minutes and hit 2-of-5 shots and a 3-pointer for five points, six rebounds, three assists and a steal in Tuesday's 118-107 Game 1 win over the Celtics. 

    Advice: He went to the locker room in the first half with an apparent right foot injury but had his ankle re-taped and was out there to start the second half. He wasn't a fantasy force tonight but played great defense and helped the Heat get a win and hold homecourt in Game 1.  NBCSportsEDGE.com Tuesday, 8:30 pm
     
  • P.J. Tucker (foot) starts second half for Heat
    P.J. Tucker (right foot) started the second half of Tuesday's Game 1 after suffering an injury in the first half.

    Advice: We're still not sure of exactly what he did, as replays don't show much, but he's back out there after getting his right foot and ankle re-taped.  NBCSportsEDGE.com Tuesday, 7:01 pm
     
  • P.J. Tucker to locker room with right foot injury
    P.J. Tucker went to the locker room in the second quarter after suffering an apparent right foot injury on Tuesday night.

    Advice: Replays showed it was a non-contact injury and he was able to hobble to the locker room under his own power. Hopefully, he's OK and will be back in the game soon. But it's pretty clear he's not simply getting an ankle re-taped, which is a bit concerning. Update: He's getting his ankle re-taped. What do we know? In all seriousness, he didn't appear to turn his ankle in any way, shape or form so the fact he's getting a new tape job and might return to the game is great news. NBCSportsEDGE.com Tuesday, 6:32 pm
     
  • Jaylen Brown struggles from line, finishes with 19
    Jaylen Brown shot just 1-of-4 from the foul line in Sunday's 109-81 win over the Bucks, tallying 19 points (8-of-16 FGs), eight rebounds, two steals, and two 3-pointers in 37 minutes.

    Advice: An 80.8% shooter from the foul line for his postseason career, Brown had an uncharacteristically bad afternoon in the department on Sunday. The good news for him and the Celtics was that it really didn't matter, as Boston pulled away in the second half to win the decisive Game 7. After being limited to just 12 points in Game 1, Brown scored at least 18 in each of the next six games. Brown and Marcus Smart (11/7/10/1/1 with one 3-pointer) stepped forward to supplement the efforts of Grant Williams and Jayson Tatum, who combined to score 50 points. Next up for the Celtics are the Heat, with Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals scheduled for Tuesday night.  NBCSportsEDGE.com May 15, 3:27 pm
     
  • Jayson Tatum finishes Game 7 win with 23 points
    Jayson Tatum played 37 minutes in Sunday's 109-81 win over the Bucks, finishing with 23 points (7-of-14 FGs, 4-of-5 FTs), six rebounds, eight assists, one block, and five 3-pointers. 

    Advice: Tatum's first half was a bit of a mixed bag; while he did score 17 points, he was also responsible for five turnovers and three personal fouls. However, Tatum and the Celtics were able to get the turnovers issues under control after the intermission, grabbing control of the game and outscoring the Bucks by a 61-38 margin in the second half. Next up for Boston is an Eastern Conference Finals matchup with the Heat, with Game 1 set for Tuesday night in Miami. Who wins the matchup between Tatum and Jimmy Butler will go a long way towards determining which team represents the East in the NBA Finals.  NBCSportsEDGE.com May 15, 3:20 pm
     
  • Ben Simmons, Nets to work together on summer plan
    “We will work together with the Nets on a summer plan,” a source close to Ben Simmons told The New York Post. “Everyone is confident.” 

    Advice: After missing a full season, Simmons and his camp seem intent on making things work in Brooklyn. He clearly had plenty of physical and mental barriers that prevented him from playing this season, and they want to make sure that doesn't happen again. Hopefully they'll make a plan that will have him ready to play in the regular season opener, as Simmons could be a tremendous fantasy asset this upcoming season. Of course, you'll have find triples and free throws elsewhere. NBCSportsEDGE.com May 15, 6:47 am