The Boston Celtics are set to face off against the Miami Heat in a crucial matchup that could have major implications for both teams' playoff hopes. The Celtics, currently sitting in first place in the Eastern Conference, look to continue their dominance over the Heat, who are fighting to stay in contention.

Despite a 2-3 record on the second night of back-to-back games, the Heat have been playing well at home, having hosted the Grizzlies on Wednesday and looking to build momentum as they head into a tough stretch. For the Celtics, this game marks the end of their three-game road trip, which has seen them win two out of three against Houston and Dallas.

Terry Rozier joined the Heat on Wednesday and came off the bench with Herro, Richardson, Butler, Highsmith, and Adebayo starting. The Heat's Kevin Love is a game-time decision due to illness, while Dru Smith is out for the season with a third-degree knee sprain. Meanwhile, the Celtics have no players on their injury list at present.

The Celtics will return home after this game, where they'll embark on a seven-game homestand that includes matchups against the Clippers, Pelicans, Pacers, Lakers, Grizzlies, Hawks, and Wizards. The Heat, on the other hand, will play at Miami once again before embarking on a home-and-home set against the Nets.

The Celtics are 18-13 against Eastern Conference teams and have lost four of their last five games. They're 12-9 at home and 4-6 in their last 10 games, but remain 1st in the East, three games ahead of second-place Milwaukee and four games clear of third-place Philadelphia.

The Heat, meanwhile, are 23-6 against Eastern Conference opponents and 14-9 on the road. They're tied with seventh-place Indiana for a spot in the play-in games, while the Celtics are looking to maintain their lead over Brooklyn.

Overall, this matchup promises to be an exciting one as two teams look to take control of their respective playoff positions. With the Heat's home-court advantage and the Celtics' desire to continue their winning streak, this game is sure to be a thrilling contest that fans won't want to miss.

Celtics and miami