Jimmy Butler Scores 35 Points to Lead Miami Heat to Game 1 Victory

Jimmy Butler scored 35 points, including 12 in the fourth quarter, to lead the Miami Heat to a 123-116 victory over the Boston Celtics in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals on Wednesday night.

Butler shot 12-of-25 from the field, including 2-of-4 from 3-point range, and 9-of-10 from the free throw line. He also added five rebounds, seven assists, and six steals in 43 minutes of play.

The Heat led for most of the game, but the Celtics rallied in the fourth quarter to cut the lead to two points with 2:45 remaining. However, Butler hit a pair of free throws and a 3-pointer to put the game away.

Bam Adebayo added 24 points and 12 rebounds for the Heat, while Tyler Herro scored 17 points off the bench. Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with 30 points, while Jaylen Brown added 24 points.

The Heat will look to take a 2-0 series lead in Game 2 on Friday night in Boston.

Here are some additional details about Butler's performance:

1. Butler scored 12 points in the fourth quarter, including a pair of free throws with 1:15 remaining to put the Heat up 119-114.
2. Butler also had six steals, which tied a career playoff high.
3. Butler's performance was a huge boost for the Heat, who were without starting center Bam Adebayo for most of the game due to foul trouble.

Butler's performance was a reminder of why he is one of the best players in the NBA. He was able to take over the game in the fourth quarter and lead the Heat to a victory. The Heat will need more of the same from Butler if they want to win the Eastern Conference Finals.