MIAMI, FLORIDA - MAY 25: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics drives to the ball against P.J. Tucker #17 and Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat during the first quarter in Game Five of the 2022 NBA Playoffs Eastern Conference Finals at FTX Arena on May 25, 2022 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)Andy Lyons/Getty Images

Heat Ripped for Scoring Drought as Jayson Tatum, Celtics Win Game 5

Paul KasabianMay 25, 2022

The Miami Heat shot just 31.9 percent from the field and made only 7-of-45 three-pointers en route to a 93-80 home loss to the Boston Celtics in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals on Wednesday.

Miami held a 42-37 halftime edge, but the Celtics doubled the Heat's point total in the third quarter (32-16) and led by as many as 23 points. Celtics wing Jaylen Brown's 25 points led all scorers, while teammate Jayson Tatum posted a near triple-double (22 points, 12 rebounds, nine assists).

Heat guards Kyle Lowry and Max Strus missed all 15 of their shots. Jimmy Butler shot 4-of-18. Victor Oladipo made just one of his seven field-goal attempts.

TOP NEWS

This was a complete disaster for the Heat, who now trail Boston 3-2 in the best-of-seven series.

Numerous analysts noted the Heat's significant offensive struggles, most notably in the second half.

In fairness, the Heat are banged up. Tyler Herro (left groin strain) did not play. Lowry (left hamstring strain) appeared clearly bothered by his ailment.

Jimmy Butler looked hobbled as well, and he notably dealt with right knee inflammation that forced him to miss the second half of Game 3 last Saturday.

However, the Heat need to find answers quickly with Game 6 taking place Saturday at 8:30 p.m. ET in Boston. A Celtics win will vault Boston into the NBA Finals for the first time since 2010.