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With 26 games left in the regular season, the Miami Heat currently sits at the eight seed in the Eastern Conference Standings. Eight-seeded teams don’t usually pose a threat to the top seeded teams. However, Miami did that twice during last year’s playoff run to the NBA Finals. Because of this, the Heat have many keeping an eye on them as the playoffs nears. Boston Celtics legend Paul Pierce is one of them. Count Pierce among those who think Miami can pose a threat to Boston.
Playoff Battles
Boston and Miami have had their playoff battles over the years. Since acquiring Jimmy Butler in 2019, the Celtics and Heat have faced each other three times in the Eastern Conference Finals. Miami has won two of the last three series matchups between the two teams. Last year’s Eastern Conference Finals matchup ended up being a thrilling one as the Heat defeated the Celtics in seven games to clinch their NBA Finals berth.
This year’s Boston team looks drastically different than last year. They acquired Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday this past offseason through trade. The moves have significantly improved the team, with Boston posting the league’s best record. They’re also had Miami’s number this season, sweeping the Heat in the regular season 3-0.
However, the Heat are not currently looking ahead. After being in the top 4 in the standings for the early part of the season, Miami has fallen down the standings. A seven-game losing streak significantly changed their seeding. Now, Miami is looking to move up the standings. Despite having success as a play-in team last year, Miami is looking to avoid that this season. As of Sunday afternoon, they currently sit one game behind the Indiana Pacers for the sixth seed in the East standings.
