NBA Playoffs 2012 TV Schedule: What to Watch for in Epic Heat vs. Celtics Game 5

The Boston Celtics and Miami Heat are set to do battle tonight in what should be nothing short of an epic Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals.

It’s an absolute can’t-miss contest as a basketball fan, and even casual observers of the sport will want to tune in. There are so many star players, great storylines and exciting matchups all packed into four quarters (possibly more the way this series has gone).

Let’s take a look at what you need to look out for in this game.

Where: American Airlines Arena, Miami, FL

When: Tuesday, June 5 at 8:30 p.m. ET

Watch: ESPN

Live Stream: ESPN3

Line: Heat -8, Over/Under 179 (Via ScoresAndOdds.com)

Key Player: Rajon Rondo

Rondo has been playing out of his mind in this series. He’s averaging 24 points, 10.5 assists, 7.0 rebounds, 1.3 steals on 53.5 percent shooting over the four games and has unquestionably been the reason why Boston is even competitive.

Miami has not been able to find answer for the star 26-year-old point guard, and will need to figure out one soon if it wants to regain the advantage.

Key Matchup: Kevin Garnett vs. Chris Bosh*

Bosh is currently a game-time decision

KG has also been dominant for the C’s, largely because of the Heat’s lack of skilled players along their frontline.

LeBron James has been tasked at times to guard the Big Ticket, and he’s only found fleeting success. It’s a large reason as to why his team is hurrying Bosh back from injury.

Miami needs to force Garnett to exert more energy on defense, which he would have to against an apt low-post scorer like CB1. It’s going to be a good battle between the two, especially if Bosh isn’t feeling lingering effects from the abdominal strain.

Prediction: Celtics 91–Heat 90

This is going to be an insane contest that should go down to the wire and possibly head into overtime.

Both teams know that this might be the most important matchup of the series, and it’s unlikely that either can climb back from a 3-2 deficit.

Boston gets the edge because they are riding the momentum of two-straight wins and have the best player right now in Rajon Rondo.