Jayson Tatum scored a game-high 33 points as the Boston Celtics cruised to a 103-85 victory over the Miami Heat on Monday night. The Celtics took an early lead, but things got complicated in the final minute of the first half after Tatum had a couple of poor shots and defensive lapses.
Tatum later redeemed himself with a strong second half, scoring 20 third-quarter points and punishing the Heat’s defense with his pick-and-roll game. Despite playing 38 minutes due to Boston’s blowout lead in the fourth quarter, Tatum took on the challenge and delivered.
Coach Joe Mazzulla was critical of Tatum’s early performance, saying it was “unacceptable.” However, Tatum responded by taking ownership of his mistakes and finding a way to dominate the game. The Celtics improved their league-best 22nd road win and head into the final half of the season on Wednesday night against the Spurs.
Tatum’s struggles in the first half were largely due to his own decisions, but he adjusted his game and made the necessary adjustments to lead Boston to victory.
Source: https://www.masslive.com/celtics/2025/02/boston-celtics-star-responds-to-halftime-callout-in-heat-rout.html