The Boston Celtics continued to ride the tide in the Eastern Conference Finals by defeating the Miami Heat, 94-90, on Wednesday night. The Celtics now lead this series, three games to two, after capturing a road victory at AmericanAirlines Arena.
Heat Vs. Celtics, 2012 NBA Playoffs Game 5: Boston Beats Miami On The Road, 94-90, For 3-2 Series Lead
The final minute of play was filled with point-counterpoint moments, but the Heat just weren't able to string together more than two points in row. With 52 seconds remaining, the Celtics held a one-point lead, 87-86, but Paul Pierce hit a trey from 25 feet out for a four-point lead. From there on out, with the exception of a LeBron James layup, it was an exchange of fouls and free throws.
Pierce scored 19 points for the Celtics, shooting just 6-of-19 from the field, but that three came at the opportune time. Kevin Garnett led the team with 26 points and grabbed 11 rebounds. Ray Allen also struggled from the field (2-of-9), but he and Mickael Pietrus each put in 13 points.
LeBron James led the Heat's effort with 30 points and 13 rebounds and Dwyane Wade added 27 points, but ultimately they couldn't get through the Celtics defense when it was a close game. No other Miami scorer turned in more than nine points.
Game 6 of this series returns to Boston’s TD Garden on Thursday night. Can Pierce, KG and the rest of the Celtics banish LeBron and Wade from the postseason?
For more on the Heat, head over to Peninsula Is Mightier and SB Nation Tampa Bay. For more on the Celtics, check out CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston.
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