5 Reasons the Boston Celtics Should Have Hope vs. Miami Heat

It's human nature to overreact to Game 1 in a series, especially when that Game 1 echoes our suspicions. For those who picked Miami to beat Boston (and I am among them), Monday's contest looked to effectively end the series.

Except, here are some developments that could help the Celtics get back in this thing on Wednesday. 

1. Miami Can't Front KG

The Heat found success fronting Indiana players, but that success ended Monday night with Kevin Garnett's 23 and 10. Even LeBron couldn't do a successful front on KG. The lanky big is just too tall, too limber. 

2. Points in the Paint

The Celtics managed 15 field goals in the paint against the Heat, mostly from point-blank range. They usually struggle to get easy shots, but the fronting of KG has led to some bunnies. 

3. Bad Haslem

The Heat need Udonis Haslem to replace the frontcourt shooting that they lack in Bosh's absence. On Monday, Haslem was 0-of-2 with three quick fouls. He may struggle against a Celtics defense that always gave Bosh trouble. 

4. The Luc Richard Mbah Factor

The Milwaukee wing defender likes Boston in seven—he wrote as much on ESPN. 

5. Rondo Running Wild

The confounding point guard had a decent game, despite the missed layups (16 points, nine boards, seven assists). The same opportunities could turn into a monster performance.