Player Ratings for Game 4

For the fourth time in the 2020 postseason, the Lakers responded to a loss with a win. Each of the previous three times, they ensured their opponents didn't win any more games in the series. What will happen in Game 5 of the Finals?

Running diary from Lakers' Game 4 win

The Los Angeles Lakers take a 3-1 series lead in the Finals after holding off the Miami Heat in the fourth quarter with a 102-96 win. If you missed any of the action, we've got you covered with all the live updates, stats, highlights, and news from Game 4.

Will Adebayo, Dragic play in Game 4 vs. Lakers?

When will Bam Adebayo and Goran Dragic make their returns? It's the biggest question hanging over the 2020 NBA Finals.

Adebayo will play in Game 4, Dragic remains out

Both Heat starters Bam Adebayo and Goran Dragic were unable to suit up for the team's Game 3 win over the Lakers. Will they return to the floor for Game 4?

NBA Finals Game 4 DraftKings Picks

The Lakers and Heat tip off Game 4 of the 2020 NBA Finals on Tuesday night. Bam Adebayo and Goran Dragic's status will have huge implications in DraftKings Showdown contests if you're looking for some NBA DFS action.

What channel is Lakers vs. Heat on tonight? Time, TV schedule for Game 4 of 2020 NBA Finals

Here is a complete guide to watching Lakers vs. Heat in Game 4 of the 2020 NBA Finals, including the start time, how to live stream and a full TV schedule for the series.

Medical analysis on Dragic's foot injury

What is a plantar fascia tear and is it something Goran Dragic can play through? Our medical expert breaks down the injury the Heat guard suffered in Game 1 of the 2020 NBA Finals.

Are the Lakers 'in trouble'? Jimmy Butler has a knack for backing up quotes like no other player

Olynyk hopes to inspire next generation

"I'm proud to be Canadian, to be from B.C., Kamloops," Olynyk said following the Heat's Game 3 win in the Finals. "I've grown a lot, grown up there, built what I was there as a basketball player. It's prepared me for everything I'm doing now."

Soundsystem Live: Can Butler, Heat even up the Finals?

NBA.com's Carlan Gay and Scott Rafferty break down the first three games of the NBA Finals and discuss whether or not we have a series on our hands going forward.

Fact or Fiction: Bounce-back game is coming from Davis

Anthony Davis is coming off of his quietest game of the postseason, scoring just 15 points on nine shots in 33 minutes of play in Game 3. With a series-altering Game 4 ahead, we have some questions that need answers about the Lakers All-Star forward.

Game 4 odds, predictions

How will the Heat follow up their thrilling Game 3 win? Can the Lakers get back to their Game 1 and Game 2 ways? Here's what Vegas is saying about Game 4 of the NBA Finals.

Does Miami have the blueprint to beat LA?

After dropping the first two games of the NBA Finals, Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said "If you want something badly enough, you'll figure it out." While dominating Los Angeles with a 40-point triple-double in Game 3, Jimmy Butler could be heard telling LeBron James and company that they were "in trouble". So after playing with the confidence and swagger of a team fueled by optimism, not desperation, what did the Heat really 'figure out' about the Lakers? As the teams gear up for Game 4, we explore what worked well for Miami and how they can replicate that to tie up the series.

Canadian Olynyk filling major role on Finals stage

Without two key starters in Bam Adebayo and Goran Dragic, the Heat have used a 'next player up' approach in the NBA Finals. On the biggest stage, role players like Canadian Kelly Olynyk have stepped up to make this a competitive series. How have these guys helped fill the void?

Jimmy Butler told LeBron James 'you're in trouble' and had a good reason for it

Jimmy Butler explained himself after he was caught on cameras saying, "You're in trouble."

LeBron James explains why he walked off the court with time left in Game 3

It was a short, to-the-point reply.

Butler: Heat proved 'we belong' after Game 3 win

Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat are riding a wave of confidence following their impressive Game 3 performance against the Los Angeles Lakers.

By the numbers: Butler makes history

With a 40-point triple-double in Game 3 of the 2020 NBA Finals, Butler placed himself among some elite company. Take a deeper look into the numbers to see just how Miami's All-Star forward made multiple marks in the record books.

Tyler Herro's attempt at a mean mug in NBA Finals gets swatted by Twitter

The Heat rookie got some face time late in Game 3. Then social media had its say.

Butler drives short-handed Heat to Game 3 win

Sporting News provided live updates from Game 3 between the Lakers and Heat. Check out all of the highlights you missed right here.

Player ratings for Game 3

Behind a masterful performance from Jimmy Butler, the Miami Heat battled in Game 3 and eventually pulled off a win despite missing two of its key players. How did the game's biggest players perform in this one? Find out in our player rankings:

Social reaction: NBA players in awe of Butler's Game 3

Jimmy Butler had everyone talking on Twitter post-game after delivering an NBA Finals masterpiece in the Heat's Game 3 win - 40 points, 13 assists, and 11 rebounds.

Butler dominates as Heat stun Lakers in Game 3

Missing Bam Adebayo and Goran Dragic for a second straight game, the Heat rode a 40-point triple-double from Butler in order to keep their title hopes alive with an 11-point win in Game 3 of the NBA Finals. He becomes just the third player in league history to record such a stat line in the Finals, and the first to do so in a win.

Running diary from Heat's emphatic Game 3 win

Jimmy Butler led the way in Game 3 with his first playoff career triple-double to give the undermanned Heat a 115-104 win. If you missed any of the action, we've got you covered with all the live updates, stats, highlights, and news from Game 3.

Jimmy Butler fueled Heat's win over Lakers in ways you can count — and in ways you can't

Game 3 is what happens when Butler's talent and mentality meet.

Will Adebayo, Dragic play in Game 3 vs. Lakers?

Will Adebayo and Dragic return Sunday night and help the Heat avoid falling into a 3-0 hole?

Who is LeBron's best teammate ever?

In their first year as a duo, James has unlocked another level of Davis, who appears to be good enough to add years to the back end of LeBron's career. A recent discussion on Twitter between two of James' former teammates in Kendrick Perkins and Dwyane Wade prompted two of our staff members to discuss whether or not AD is the best teammate LeBron has ever had.

Adebayo, Dragic OUT for Game 3

The Heat will be without their two starters in Bam Adebayo (neck) and Goran Dragic (foot) again in Game 3.

What to watch in Game 3

While Los Angeles looks to continue to build upon momentum just two wins away from title No. 17, Miami prepares for a must-win situation with its back against the wall.

It's time to give the Lakers role players credit

Leading 2-0 in the NBA Finals with only three losses the entire postseason, it's time to stop questioning the Lakers role players. Even if each individual player doesn't step up night-in and night-out, there's always a couple players that are ready to give their team exactly what they need.

NBA Finals Game 3 DraftKings Picks

The Lakers and Heat tip off Game 3 of the 2020 NBA Finals on Sunday night. Injuries for the Heat create interesting options in DraftKings Showdown contests if you're looking for some NBA DFS action.

LeBron and Davis are cheat codes to Miami's zone

As expected, the Lakers got a heavy dose of the Heat's zone defence in Game 2 of the NBA Finals, but they handled it well. So well, in fact, that the Lakers had one of the most efficient games we've ever seen in the Finals. Here's how they did it.

What channel is Lakers vs. Heat on tonight? Time, TV schedule for Game 3 of 2020 NBA Finals

Here is a complete guide to watching Lakers vs. Heat in Game 3 of the 2020 NBA Finals, including the start time, how to live stream and a full TV schedule for the series.

Heat talk belief, fight ahead of Game 3

The Heat are facing an uphill task in the NBA Finals but plan to "ride with this thing until the wheels fall off."

Adebayo plans to play in Game 3

"Yes, I believe I'll be in the lineup," Adebayo told Yahoo Sports after missing Game 2 with a neck strain. "I'm feeling better. I believe I'll play."

LeBron, AD too much for Heat in Game 2

Sporting News provided live updates from Game 2 between the Lakers and Heat. Check out all of the highlights you missed right here.

Davis closing in on Finals MVP

For the second straight game, Anthony Davis decimated the Miami Heat defence inside and out. With the Lakers taking a commanding 2-0 lead, Davis has been the most dominant player in the series and The Finals MVP trophy is his to lose.

Player ratings for Game 2

Anthony Davis stole the show for a second consecutive game in the Finals but which other players performed well in Game 2? Find out with our player ratings.

Not even a healthy Bam Adebayo can help Heat stop this version of Anthony Davis

Davis has been shining all playoffs long, regardless of who has been standing in front of him.

Butler: 'It's not over. We're just down 0-2'

"It's not over. We're just down 0-2, so we got to do something special," Jimmy Butler said after the Game 2 loss. Butler and the Heat still believe they are in this, although only four teams out of 31 occasions have comeback from the Finals deficit that the Heat are in right now.

Dwyane Wade agrees: Anthony Davis is the best teammate LeBron James has ever had

There has been a lot of debate over who is LeBron's best teammate all time. Wade seems to agree that the title belongs to Davis.

Davis puts on another masterclass in dominant Lakers win

Davis followed up his historic Game 1 with 32 points and 14 rebounds in Game 2. Without Bam Adebayo, the Heat had no answer for the seven-time All-Star.

Who will Heat turn to in Game 2 with Adebayo, Dragic out?

Who might be called upon to step up for Miami in the absence of two starters?

Running diary from Game 2 of the Finals

The Miami Heat were missing Bam Adebayo and Goran Dragic for game 2 and the Lakers took full advantage. LeBron James and Anthony Davis combined for 63 points to lead the Lakers to another double-digit win.

NBA Finals Game 2 DraftKings Picks

The Lakers and Heat tip off Game 2 of the 2020 NBA Finals on Friday night. Injuries for the Heat create interesting options in DraftKings Showdown contests if you're looking for some NBA DFS action.

Heat injury updates ahead of Game 2

Game 1 of the 2020 NBA Finals couldn't have gone much worse for the Heat.

Report: Dragic, Adebayo out for Game 2

The Heat were bit by the injury bug in Game 1 of the NBA Finals as Butler, Adebayo and Dragic all suffered various ailments. We'll keep you posted with each and every update leading into Game 2.

Heat should feature Olynyk more

Kelly Olynyk played 18 minutes in the second half of Game 1. If he gets that consistent opportunity going forward, it just might help turn the series around.

Butler, Heat ready to climb uphill challenge in Finals

Butler: 'Nobody picked us to be here. We embrace it. We love it. We're gonna win.'

Keys to victory in Game 2 of the NBA Finals

The Lakers handled the Heat in Game 1 to come away with a decisive victory. What can Miami do differently to bounce back and even the series? What can Los Angeles do to put itself two wins away from an NBA title?

Heat must slow down AD, but there's a bigger problem

Anthony Davis went off in Game 1 of the 2020 NBA Finals. The Heat have to find a way to slow him down, but they have an even bigger problem on their hands in this series.

The Finals turns LeBron into a bully

If there's a mismatch, LeBron James is going to find it. Like he's done time and time again in the NBA Finals, the four-time MVP was relentless at picking on the Heat's weakest defender in Game 1. Here's how he did it and how it broke Miami's defence.

Reliving Game 1 of the first-ever bubble NBA Finals

Nearly a year since the 2019-20 season tipped-off, Game 1 of the 2020 NBA Finals were played between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Miami Heat. Take a look at some of the best photos from the series-opener.

How the Heat can recover from Game 1 blowout

Erik Spoelstra is one of the rare coaches who has won the NBA title — multiple times, in fact — after dropping Game 1 of the NBA Finals.

Buter: I have to be ready to go

After the Miami Heat were outclassed by the LA Lakers in the NBA Finals opener, Jimmy Butler insists he will be fit and ready for Game 2.

Dwight Howard timeline: How former Magic star revitalized career with Lakers

The Lakers helped save the future Hall of Famer's career.

Rajon Rondo timeline: How former Celtics star found way back to NBA Finals with Lakers

Former Celtics guard and NBA champion Rajon Rondo has revitalized his career with the Lakers.

Why this NBA Finals is a little bit personal for LeBron James, Pat Riley

LeBron James had four incredibly successful seasons in Miami, but his time there didn't end smoothly.

Lakers cruise to Game 1 win

Sporting News provided live updates from Game 1 between the Lakers and Heat. Check out all of the highlights you missed right here.

Davis takes over in Finals debut to lead Lakers blowout victory

It was all Lakers in Game 1 as Anthony Davis completely dominated the Heat in his NBA Finals debut. A classic LeBron James Finals performance, strong 3-point shooting from Los Angeles' supporting cast and injuries to Miami's key starters outlines a lopsided first game.

Obama headlines virtual crowd for Game 1

President Barack Obama was among many famous faces in the stands for Game 1 as part of an initiative to encourage people to vote.

Barack Obama a virtual fan

Obama, a noted basketball fan, was one of several famous people who appeared as virtual fans in Game 1 of the NBA Finals.

Dragic suffers torn plantar fascia in left foot

Dragic did not return for the second half of Game 2 with postgame X-rays revealing he suffered a torn plantar fascia in his left foot.

Player ratings for Game 1

The Lakers' All-Stars dominated and led their team to a comfortable Game 1 win. Their bench delivered as well, outplaying their counterparts in what turned out to be a lopsided contest. Which players performed in best in the series-opener?

Running Diary from Lakers Game 1 win

Anthony Davis and LeBron James combine for 59 points to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a 116-98 win over the Miami Heat in Game 1.

Fast facts on Tyler Herro

Tyler Herro is working his way into a household name after a breakout performance in the Eastern Conference Finals. Get to know the Heat's rookie guard.

Robinson's journey from Division III to NBA Finals

Duncan Robinson started his college basketball career at Division III Williams College. He has turned into one of the best shooters on the planet, starting for the Heat in the NBA Finals against the Lakers.

NBA Finals Game 1 DraftKings Picks

The Lakers and Heat tip off Game 1 of the 2020 NBA Finals on Wednesday night. LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Bam Adebayo and Jimmy Butler make for great options in DraftKings Showdown contests if you're looking for some NBA DFS action.

How was the Heat's roster built?

In the timespan of a single season, the Heat have gone from 10th place in the East to the 2020 NBA Finals. How did this roster come to be?

What channel is Lakers vs. Heat on today? Time, TV schedule for Game 1 of 2020 NBA Finals

Here is a complete guide to watching Lakers vs. Heat in Game 1 of the 2020 NBA Finals, including the start time, how to live stream and a full TV schedule for the series.

Tyler Herro is ready for the moment

In his first playoff campaign, Heat rookie Tyler Herro has shown he's not afraid to take and make big shots in crunch time, proving to be a valuable part of their closing lineups.

NBA Finals 2020 schedule, times, TV channels & live streams to watch Heat vs. Lakers

Here's everything you need to know about watching the 2020 NBA Finals.

The numbers behind Herro's big night

Herro broke Dwyane Wade's franchise record for most points scored by a Heat rookie in a playoff game, putting himself alongside some of the game's greats with his 37-point performance in Game 4 against the Boston Celtics

Is Herro the next Devin Booker?

Two members of our NBA.com Staff discuss ahead of Thursday's matchup between the Miami Heat and Phoenix Suns.

What will Herro's peak look like?

Heat rookie Tyler Herro captivated NBA fans across the world with his performance against Celtics in the Eastern Conference Finals, including a 37-point explosion in Game 4. His breakout series had our NBA staff thinking... just how great can Herro be?

LeBron, Lakers top merchandise sales, Raps rank 6th

Based on global sales from July 30 to Sept. 28, LeBron and the Lakers have been top sellers on NBAStore.com. The Toronto Raptors came in as the sixth-highest selling team.

Greatness awaits Erik Spoelstra

The second-longest tenured coach in the NBA has a chance to add to his legacy. He has a chance to go from good to great.

Butler, Heat a match made in heaven

It took Jimmy Butler four teams in four years to find a home, but he's four wins away from making the journey worth his while.

AD is better than Bam ... right?

Based on reputation, it may be natural to check the Lakers' box when comparing premiere big men. But not every NBA.com Global Staff member believes the battle between Anthony Davis and Bam Adebayo is that cut and dry. We take a closer look at this titanic battle, and why some are giving Bam the edge.

Four stats that loom large over Finals

A closer look at some of the key stats heading into the 2020 NBA Finals and how they could impact the series in ways that would benefit the Lakers and Heat.

NBA Finals 2020: Central dilemma for Lakers is how best to handle Heat's red-hot Bam Adebayo

The NBA no longer is a center’s league. And yet, the crucial matchup of the 2020 NBA Finals is at center.

NBA Finals odds: Lakers remain 2020 title favorites, but Heat are a popular upset pick

Here's a closer look at the latest odds for the 2020 NBA Finals, plus a list of the favorites for the Finals MVP award.

The biggest X Factors in the Finals

There will be no shortage of star power in the Finals, as the Lakers have an All-Star duo in LeBron James and Anthony Davis while the Heat have an All-Star duo of their own in Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo. Where this series will be won, however, is in the margins. Ahead of Game 1, we break down the six biggest X Factors in the series, from Tyler Herro to Dwight Howard.

The overlooked rivalry of the Finals

2020 marks the sixth time that LeBron James and Andre Iguodala will meet in the postseason, and the fifth time it's happened in the NBA Finals. Ahead of the latest chapter of their longstanding rivalry, look back at how it has come to be.

Alex Caruso is ready for the spotlight

While Anthony Davis and LeBron James assume most of the headlines, Alex Caruso has emerged as a vital cog for the Los Angeles Lakers in their quest for the NBA championship. We look at Caruso's story – one of legend – from working his way up from the Lakers' G League affiliate to capturing the eye of NBA fans worldwide.

Ranking best players in Finals

There's no question as to who the best player in the series is, but who is better among Jimmy Butler, Anthony Davis and Bam Adebayo? What about Goran Dragic, Rajon Rondo and Tyler Herro? Ahead of the Finals, our NBA.com Staff ranks the best players on the Lakers and Heat.

Heat vs. Lakers predictions, picks, schedule & more

Everything you need to know about the Heat and Lakers ahead of the 2020 NBA Finals.

Miami Heat: The most unexpected finalist in 35 years?

After missing the playoffs last year and going through an offseason where Jimmy Butler was the only noteworthy addition, the Miami Heat weren't considered among the top 10 favourites for the 2019-20 season. So we ask, are they the most unexpected finalist we've seen? We review the archives of the underdogs, going back to 1985.

Soundsystem Live: Predicting the NBA Finals

NBA.com's Carlan Gay and Scott Rafferty discuss the 2020 NBA Finals and give their predictions on who will win the series.

NBA announces Finals schedule

The NBA Finals will tip-off Wednesday September 30 with the Miami Heat taking on the Los Angeles Lakers. We've got you covered with all the dates, times and TV info for the games.

Rondo could make unique history in Finals

Playing in the 2020 NBA Finals as a member of the Lakers, Rajon Rondo has the opportunity to do something that no other player in NBA history has done.

Wiggins rooting for Butler in Finals

Canadian Andrew Wiggins will be a Miami Heat fan for the 2020 NBA Finals for no reason other than to see former teammate Jimmy Butler win a ring.

NBA unveils court design for Finals

Ahead of Game 1 of the 2020 NBA Finals, the league has unveiled the court design that will be used throughout the series between the Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat.

Stats behind LeBron's 10 NBA Finals

LeBron James has shown incredible longevity by reaching a 10th NBA Finals and could make US sports history when the Lakers face the Heat.

Finals preview: Can the Heat slow down LeBron and A.D.?

With the Heat eliminating the Celtics in six games, the 2020 NBA Finals matchup is set. Awaiting Miami is the Western Conference champion Lakers and a familiar foe in superstar LeBron James.

History awaits LeBron in 2020 NBA Finals

LeBron James' main objective is lifting the Larry O'Brien trophy for a fourth time, but there's plenty of records within reach that would put the 35-year-old in rare air if the Lakers win the title.

Heat, Lakers become unprecedented NBA Finals opponents

For the first time in NBA history, the NBA Finals will be played between two teams that didn't make the postseason the previous year.

Kentucky blue runs deep in NBA Playoffs

Headlined by one of the most intriguing matchups of the 2020 NBA Finals in Anthony Davis versus Bam Adebayo, the University of Kentucky was well-represented in a record-setting 2020 NBA Playoffs for Big Blue Nation.

Erik Spoelstra shuts down LeBron-in-NBA-Finals storyline during ESPN post-game interview

The Miami Heat coach just wanted to celebrate reaching the NBA Finals for a little while.

Butler: Bam's 'going to be the reason that we win a championship'

Bam Adebayo became the first Heat player since LeBron James (2014) to drop 30/10/5 in a playoff game, leading the franchise back to the NBA Finals with a dominant performance in Game 6.

Bam's late-game takeover carries Miami to NBA Finals

With their 125-113 Game 6 win, the Miami Heat become the first team, fifth-seed or lower to make the NBA Finals since the New York Knicks in 1999.

Running diary of Heat's Game 6 win as they advance to NBA Finals

The Miami Heat are into the NBA Finals for the first time since 2014, with a 125-113 win over the Boston Celtics in Game 6.

Discussing LA's potential Finals matchups

Now that the Lakers are back in the Finals for the first time in 10 years, the focus shifts to their potential opponent. Which team is the tougher matchup? Two NBA.com Staff members discuss.

Can the Celtics force a Game 7?

The Celtics used a second-half comeback in Game 5 to extend their Eastern Conference Finals series another game. Can they pull off another win to force a Game 7? Or will the Heat learn from their mistakes to close things out and return to the NBA Finals?

NBA playoff bracket 2020: Updated TV schedule, scores, results for the conference finals

Here's everything you'll need to know about watching the 2020 Eastern and Western Conference finals, including TV schedules for both series.

Celtics gutsy second half forces a Game 6

The Celtics were down but not out, trailing by seven points heading into halftime of a must-win Game 5. When a 20-3 Boston run kicked off the third quarter to turn that deficit into an eight point lead they never looked back, riding their tandem of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown to victory to keep their season alive.

Brown-Tatum tandem give Celtics hope

The Celtics trailed by seven points heading into the half then came out of the break looking like a completely different team. Led by their young duo of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, Boston completed the second-half comeback to force a Game 6.

Celtics roar back, avoid elimination

Boston coach Brad Stevens discussed his team's season-saving win in the Eastern Conference finals.

Who is more likely to make 3-1 comeback?

With the Nuggets Game 4 loss to the Lakers, they find themselves in a familiar position. With both Conference Finals series now at 3-1, which team is more likely to defy the odds and complete a comeback to go to the NBA Finals?

Twitter has enough of Kemba Walker's flopping in Celtics-Heat Game 5

The Boston guard made it look obvious a couple of times.

Running diary from Celtics must-win Game 5 victory

Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown combined for 59 points to keep their team's title hopes alive as the Celtics have forced a Game 6 behind a huge third quarter run that flipped the game completely.

What to watch in Game 5 of ECF

The Heat hold a commanding 3-1 lead over the Celtics in the Eastern Conference Finals. Can Boston mount a comeback or will Miami close out the series to return to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2014?

NBA analyst Jalen Rose shouts Breonna Taylor message before ESPN cuts to break

Wednesday's news that no homicide charges would be filed after the police killing of Black woman Breonna Taylor shook the NBA community.

Heat rookie Tyler Herro is built for the big stage

Herro delivered what could be the first of many star-level playoff performances.

Adebayo downplays injured left wrist

The Heat forward was getting iced plenty after the game but insisted that he's 'good' and that it was just a twist. Later, in his postgame conference with the media, he dedicated the Heat win to Breonna Taylor, a 26-year-old black woman who was killed by police officers in Louisville in March this year.

Heat ride rookie Herro's historic Game 4 for win

The 20-year-old stole the show, scoring 17 of his game-high 37 points in the fourth quarter. His performance helped the Heat survive a furious second-half comeback by the Celtics, led by Jayson Tatum.

Running diary of Heat's thrilling Game 4 win

The Heat held off the Celtics' second-half rally to win 112-109, thanks to a monster 37-point performance off the bench from Tyler Herro.

Pat Riley's process with Heat: Scouting and evaluating rather than tanking and losing

There was no self-aggrandizing phrase conjured to advertise the reconstruction of the Heat when they were through dominating the early part of the previous decade.

What to watch in Celtics-Heat Game 4

The Celtics held off another late Heat comeback to get on the board in the Eastern Conference Finals, trailing 2-1. Can Boston pull off a second consecutive win to even the series?

The adjustment that brought Celtics back in ECF

The Celtics first win of the Eastern Conference Finals all started with one defensive adjustment from head coach Brad Stevens: putting Marcus Smart on Goran Dragic. Can this one change allow Boston to even the series in Game 4?

Soundsystem Live: How Denver wins a must-win Game 3

NBA.com's Carlan Gay and Scott Rafferty discuss the latest news and notes around the NBA in the lastest LIVE edition of NBA Soundsystem.

Butler: Playing from behind 'gets old'

The Heat were in pursuit of another double-digit comeback in their series against the Celtics but in Game 3 their late efforts came up short. Following the loss, Miami's All-Star duo Jimmy Butler of Bam Adebayo stressed that the team cannot continue to rely on coming from behind to win games.

Butler frustrated by Heat's starts

The Boston Celtics' 117-106 Game 3 win over the Heat frustrated Jimmy Butler as, for once, Miami were unable to stage a comeback.

Forceful Jaylen Brown sets tone for Celtics in Game 3 win over Heat

Brown attacked and attacked, and then attacked some more in Boston's 117-106 victory.

Tatum and Brown explode in crucial Game 3 win

Led by the duo of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, the Celtics maintained command throughout Game 3 to avoid falling into a 0-3 series deficit.

Hayward's return draws high praise

"We're so much better when he's out there, so much more dynamic, so much more versatile," Jayson Tatum said of Hayward after Boston's crucial win in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals. "To have him back is everything."

Running diary from Celtics Game 3 win over Heat

It was a must-win game for the Celtics, trying to avoid going down 3-0 in the series, and they responded. Behind a thrilling performance from their dynamic duo of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, Boston is on the board in this series.

Will Gordon Hayward play in Game 3 vs. Heat?

Will Gordon Hayward make his return Saturday night and help the Celtics avoid falling into a 3-0 hole?

Celtics need Hayward now more than ever

The Celtics have fallen in a 2-0 hole to the Heat in the Eastern Conference Finals after blowing double-digit leads in each of the first two games of the series. With the infamous 3-0 deficit looming large, Boston needs Gordon Hayward back in the lineup now more than ever.

What to watch in Game 3 of ECF

The Heat pulled off their second consecutive double-digit comeback in Game 2 to take a 2-0 series lead over the Celtics. Can Boston put up a fight and come away with a win in Game 3 to avoid digging themselves into a 3-0 hole no NBA team has ever come out of?

Miami's zone defence is Boston's kryptonite

The Celtics were in control of Game 2 until the Heat switched to their zone defence. How can a team as good as the Celtics struggle so much against a zone? Let's take a closer look at one possession from Game 2 to get an idea.

The redefinition of the centre position

The value and talent of the centre position were at an all-time low a few seasons ago, but these playoffs have shown the value big men still have in today's game and the influence they will have on deciding this year's NBA champion.

Celtics locker room gets wild after Heat loss

Tensions ran high in the Boston Celtics locker room after a second consecutive loss to the Miami Heat.

Heat pull off another stunning comeback

Bam Adebayo sparked the comeback, then the veterans in Jimmy Butler and Goran Dragic iced the win which gave the Heat a commanding 2-0 series advantage.

Celtics left 'frustrated' after Game 2 loss

The Boston Celtics committed 20 turnovers in Game 2, which proved costly as they let a 17-point lead slip against the Miami Heat.

Celtics have no answer for Heat's zone

According to ESPN Stats & Info, the Heat's zone defence on 25 plays in the second half allowed just five made shots and forced Boston into five turnovers.

Second-half adjustments keyed Heat's Game 2 comeback win

While the Celtics certainly struggled throughout the second half with unforced errors, the Heat's strategy had a lot to do with the collapse.

Running diary of Heat's thrilling Game 2 win

After trailing by as many as 17 points, the Miami Heat seized control of the game in the second half with a huge defensive effort to win Game 2, 106-101 over the Boston Celtics.

Heat adapt Raptors blueprint to stop Kemba

Kemba Walker's struggles from the previous round carried over into Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Heat. Miami may have taken a page out of the Raptors' playbook to assure that would happen.

What to watch in Game 2 of ECF

What can we expect in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals following a thrilling Game 1? Here are three things to watch as the Celtics look to tie the series up at 1-1.

Bam Adebayo's clutch rejection amazes fellow NBA players: 'Block of the year!'

NBA players went wild on social media after Adebayo met Celtics forward Jayson Tatum at the rim in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals.

NBA fans find dramatic Heat-Celtics ending hilarious, turn Jayson Tatum's pain into meme

Viewers outside of Boston got a huge kick out of Bam Adebayo's last-second block of Tatum.

Teams to come back from 3-1 series deficit

Only 13 times in NBA Playoffs history has a team overcome a 3-1 series deficit. Here's when, where and how all of those comebacks happened.

NBA world reacts to 'block of the year'

The 6'9" center's clutch swat gave the Miami Heat a 117-114 win over the Boston Celtics and 1-0 series lead in the Eastern Conference Finals.

Game 1 of Celtics-Heat lived up to the hype

Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo stole the show with some clutch plays in overtime, including a block on Jayson Tatum that sent Basketball Twitter into a frenzy.

Raptors' Davis earns All-Rookie nod

Clarke becomes the second Canadian to ever earn All-Rookie First Team honours while Davis becomes the first Raptor since 2013 to earn All-Rookie honours.

Soundsystem Live: Are the Clippers in trouble? Plus Heat-Celtics predictions

NBA.com's Carlan Gay and Scott Rafferty get you up to speed with the latest around the NBA on NBA Soundsystem.

Heat vs. Celtics predictions, picks, schedule & more

Everything you need to know about the Heat and Celtics ahead of the 2020 Eastern Conference finals.

Can Miami keep it going against Boston?

The Celtics were able to hold off the fiesty Raptors and advance to the Eastern Conference Finals for the third time in four years. Awaiting them are the Heat, who have only lost one game this postseason, coming off of a series win against the top seeded Bucks.

Ranking the best players in the ECF

Jimmy Butler or Jayson Tatum? Bam Adebayo or Jaylen Brown? Goran Dragic or Gordon Hayward? Before the Boston Celtics and Miami Heat face off, our NBA.com Staff rank the best players in the Eastern Conference Finals.

NBA playoff schedule 2020: Full bracket, dates, times, TV channels for every series

Here's everything you'll need to know about watching the 2020 NBA playoffs, including series-by-series TV schedules.

Giannis not leaving Bucks

Giannis Antetokounmpo dismissed speculation that he will leave the Milwaukee Bucks following their exit from the NBA playoffs.

Butler: 'We want a championship'

In his ninth year as a professional, Butler reaches his first Conference Finals but he's not done yet. "We want to win ‘it. We want a championship and I think that's what we're focused on," he said postgame.

Are the Heat title contenders?

As the Heat move on, we break down their outlook for the remainder of the postseason and beyond, including their chances to win a title this year and their standing as an Eastern Conference power for years to come.

Giannis (ankle) out for Game 5

After re-aggravating his sprained ankle in Game 4, Antetokounpmo has been ruled out for Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals. The Bucks trail the Heat 3-1 in the series.

Bucks coach unsure whether Giannis will play in Game 5

Giannis Antetokounmpo left Sunday's Game 4 after playing just 11 minutes.

Butler on Game 4: 'We relaxed a little bit''

The Miami Heat let a golden opportunity slip in Game 4, with the Bucks grinding out a 118-115 overtime win, without Giannis Antetokounmpo for the second half.

Middleton comes up clutch in OT thriller

After reigning MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo exited the game due to re-aggravating his ankle injury, All-Star Khris Middleton scored 30 of his game-high 36 points in the second half of the thrilling win. Milwaukee avoids a sweep and will look to again extend its season in Game 5.

Bucks' Giannis Antetokounmpo misses remainder of Game 4 after reinjuring ankle

The Greek Freak rolled his ankle again in the first half of Milwaukee's must-win game against Miami.

Giannis (ankle) out for remainder of Game 4

Giannis Antetokounmpo was a game-time decision ahead of Game 4, still feeling his ankle injury from Game 3. After going through shootaround, the All-Star forward decided to give it a go, but rolled the same ankle again in the second quarter. He will not return to the game.

Giannis (ankle) active for Game 4

Antetokounmpo sprained his right ankle in Milwaukee's Game 3 loss to Miami. He was reportedly "severely limping" when he left the arena after the game, but after going through Game 4 shootaround, the reigning MVP will take the floor with his team's season on the line.

How the Heat have shut down the Bucks

The Heat have taken a commanding 3-0 lead over a Bucks team that steamrolled their way to the best record in the league this season. Here's how they've done it.

Heat teammate says Butler best player in series

After the Miami Heat took a 3-0 series lead over the Milwaukee Bucks, centre Meyers Leonard had high praise for Jimmy Butler, who is averaging 27.7 points on .561/.444/.825 shooting splits in the series.

Giannis questionable for Game 4

The Bucks, down 3-0 to the Heat in their second-round NBA playoff series, could be without reigning MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo on Sunday.

Pressing questions following Heat's stunning comeback win

The Bucks looked like they were going to get on the board in this series before the Heat came charging back in the fourth quarter. Outscoring Milwaukee 40-13 in the final frame, Miami has taken a 3-0 series lead, putting the No. 1 seeded Bucks one game away from elimination.

Milwaukee collapse as Giannis says he could "play more"

Milwaukee collapsed in the fourth quarter to fall in a 3-0 hole against Miami. The Bucks rotations continue to be a talking point as Giannis Antetokounmpo says he could "play more".

Giannis Antetokounmpo's reputation questioned after Bucks' meltdown against Heat

Antetokounmpo scored just four points in the fourth quarter of Game 3.

Heat's Erik Spoelstra starting to wear the look of elite coach

Spoelstra looks too young to be wise, but check his work instead of his hairstyle.

Game 2 of Heat-Bucks marred by controversial ending

Well, that was a bizarre end to Game 2, huh?

Butler's clutch FTs help Heat take 2-0 lead

The Miami Heat held off the Milwaukee Bucks' late rally, as Jimmy Butler's two free throws with time expired securing a 116-114 win in Game 2.

Jimmy Butler shares brutal reason why he didn't invite his family to the NBA bubble

The Heat star didn't invite his family to the NBA bubble and he has shared his brutally honest reason why.

Butler not toxic – Spoelstra

The Heat won Game 1 of their Eastern Conference semifinals series against the Bucks, and Erik Spoelstra lauded Jimmy Butler's role.

NBA playoff bracket 2020: Updated TV schedule, scores, results for Round 1 in the bubble

Here's the complete bracket for the 2020 NBA playoffs, including start times, TV channels and scores for every game.

Butler scores 40 PTS as Heat take Game 1

Jimmy Butler exploded for a playoff career-high 40 points to lead the Miami Heat to a 115-104 win in Game 1 against the Milwaukee Bucks.

Heat vs. Bucks predictions, picks, schedule & more

Everything you need to know about the Heat and Bucks before their conference semifinal series in the 2020 NBA playoffs.

The unguardable duo nobody saw coming

Miami's Bam Adebayo and Duncan Robinson have quietly been one of the NBA's scariest duos this season thanks to one simple play. Here's how they do it — and why nobody has an answer for it.

Heat have what it takes to upset Bucks

The Miami Heat have all the ingredients to make a deep playoff run, but will they?

Previewing Monday's games

Playoff action continues on Monday as the Heat and Bucks open their highly-anticipated Conference Semifinals series and the Rockets look to close out the Thunder.

Preview: Are the Heat built to take the Bucks down?

During the regular season, no team played the Bucks better than the Heat. How will that translate to a seven-game series?

Adebayo, Dragic lead Heat to sweep of Pacers

The Heat led for all of the second half and grinded their way to a 99-87 victory, one that ensured them a sweep over the fourth-seed Indiana Pacers. For the Pacers, this was their fifth straight first-round exit.

LeBron on surpassing MJ, Duncan: 'Surreal'

LeBron James moved ahead of MJ and the Big Fundamental as he erupted against Portland.

Butler, Heat hold off Pacers comeback

The Heat needed 20-plus point efforts from four different players to hold off a roaring comeback from Malcolm Brogdon and the Pacers. All-Stars Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo stood their ground down the stretch to assure their team would take a 3-0 series lead, putting themselves one game away from the Conference Semifinals.

What's at stake in Saturday's Game 3s

The four-game slates in the 2020 postseason continue. Here's all you need to know about the Game 3s scheduled for Saturday.

Robinson lights up Pacers to take 2-0 series lead

Duncan Robinson was unstoppable on Thursday, going 7-for-8 from 3-point range as the Miami Heat defeated the Indiana Pacers in Game 2.

What's at stake in Thursday's Game 2s

We've got another four-game slate of playoff games tipping off Thursday! Can the Lakers and Bucks bounce back from their opening game defeats? Meanwhile, the Pacers and Thunder look to level their first round series'. We've got you covered with a look ahead at Thursday's games.

Butler comes up clutch to lead Heat past Pacers

Jimmy Butler led the Heat with 28 points as they secured a 113-101 win over the Indiana Pacers in Game 1.

Complete first round playoff schedule

The NBA Playoffs begin Monday, August 17 with a full slate of four games. Check below for times and dates of the entire first round.

Pacers vs. Heat preview: Butler, Warren take centre stage

This is Indiana's fifth straight trip to the playoffs. Can the Pacers finally break through the first round for the first time since 2014 or will the Heat play spoiler? All eyes will be on TJ Warren and Jimmy Butler, who have gone back-and-forth with each other this season.

NBA playoff predictions 2020: Why the Lakers are unlikely to win NBA Finals, according to one model

Here's what happens when Stats Perform simulates the 2020 NBA playoffs. And it is good news for the Milwaukee Bucks.

A brief history of the Butler-Warren rivalry

Jimmy Butler says the beef with Indiana Pacers forward T.J. Warren is over ahead of their first round meeting in the playoffs.

Previewing each first round series

NBA.com is your destination for complete coverage of every series from now through the end of the NBA Finals. Below, we've got you covered with all you need to know ahead of each series in the opening round.

Every postseason series in Raptors history

The Raptors are set to appear in the postseason for the 12th time in franchise history. Ahead of the 2020 playoffs, take a look back at the team's first 11 trips to the postseason.

Jimmy Butler is charging players $20 for a cup of coffee in NBA bubble

NBA players are forced to go to Jimmy Butler if they want some coffee in the bubble.

What went down in the final day of seeding games

The final day of seeding games saw eight teams, all of whom were already locked into their playoff matchups, take the floor. At the end of the day, the Raptors, Clippers, 76ers, and the Pacers walked away with wins.

Jones Jr. leaves court on stretcher after collision

Jones Jr. ran headlong into Goga Bitadze while chasing Doug McDermott on the right wing.

How Wednesday's results impact the playoff picture

The playoff picture became clearer today, with five first-round series matchups finalised. Catch up on how the standings were impacted from Wednesday's four-game slate:

What's at stake in Wednesday's games?

Eight teams will hit the courts on Wednesday and there's plenty on the line as teams continue to fight for playoff positioning. Here's a rundown of the standings and everything at stake in Wednesday's four-game slate.

Bucks lose to Raptors

The Los Angeles Lakers beat the Denver Nuggets thanks to Kyle Kuzma's buzzer-beater, while the Milwaukee Bucks lost to the Toronto Raptors.

How Monday's results impact the playoff picture

We're a week away from the opening round of NBA playoffs and there are still a few things to be sorted out in the standings. With that in mind, here's how the results from Monday's five-game slate impacted the standings in the Eastern and Western Conference.

Who owns tiebreakers in the standings?

As we get closer to the conclusion of the seeding game schedule, focus will shift towards matchups as the playoff picture takes shape. This year, tiebreakers are more important than ever, as a number of teams could very well end up with identical records ahead of the playoffs. Below, find a breakdown of important tiebreakers in an ever-evolving playoff picture.