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Celtics-Heat preview: Jimmy Butler’s status in doubt as Miami makes first visit to TD garden this season Boston Globe

As the Miami Heat prepare for their first visit to TD Garden this season, a key question looms over the matchup: the status of Jimmy Butler. The star forward, who has been instrumental in Miami’s success this season, is listed as questionable due to knee soreness after exiting the Heat’s recent loss to the Toronto Raptors. His absence would be a significant blow for Miami, as they face a Boston Celtics team that is off to an impressive start and remains one of the league’s top contenders.

Butler’s health will be critical for Miami, as the Heat rely heavily on his scoring, leadership, and defensive prowess. If Butler is unable to go, the burden will fall on Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro to step up, with Adebayo’s inside presence and Herro’s perimeter shooting expected to be key factors in the Heat’s chances. However, the Celtics’ defense, led by Jayson Tatum and Marcus Smart, will present a tough challenge, especially if Miami lacks its primary offensive weapon.

Boston enters the game with a strong 12-4 record, with Tatum playing at an MVP level, averaging 30.4 points and 9.5 rebounds per game. The Celtics have been a dominant force at home, making TD Garden a tough environment for visiting teams. In addition to Tatum, Boston’s depth, with players like Jaylen Brown and Kristaps Porzingis, gives them multiple offensive threats.

The Heat will need to execute efficiently on both ends of the floor, with or without Butler, if they are to have a chance against Boston’s well-balanced attack. The game will also serve as a litmus test for Miami’s depth and resilience early in the season.