By Simon Evans
MIAMI, May 28 (Reuters) – Led by LeBron James’ 32 points,
the Miami Heat enjoyed a convincing 93-79 win over the Boston
Celtics on Monday to gain a 1-0 lead in their Eastern Conference
championship series.
Apart from a second quarter where Boston came alive with 35
points and Miami lost their intensity, the Heat and James had
too much for the 17-times NBA champions.
James outscored the Celtics by himself in the first quarter,
making 13 points as Miami, seeking their second successive NBA
finals appearance, established a 21-11 lead – the fewest points
they had allowed in this season’s playoffs.
But Boston dominated the second, drawing level by halftime
with Paul Pierce and Rajon Rondo finally getting into the paint
and Ray Allen doing a good job keeping Miami’s Dwyane Wade
quiet.
Miami came out with determination after the break though,
outscoring Boston 26-15 in the third quarter with James making
10 of those points to see the Heat to a 72-61 lead.
The Heat, solid in defense, were never in danger in the
fourth quarter and were able to rest James and Dwyane Wade (22
points) in the latter stages.
The series continues with game two in Miami on Wednesday.
(Editing by Greg Stutchbury)
