MUST READ: 2022 Playoffs: Heat's Defense vs Embiid And How The Celtics Can Attack It

Miami's frequent use of the zone defense played a major role in their series win vs Philly. This is because it kept Embiid from spending a lot of time on or near the block. Therefore, he was essentially turned into a full-time perimeter iso scorer at or near the free throw line where the help defense is very close (due to the zone defense) if Joel drives left or right. That would've been effective against Giannis since he's a poor shooter who would be without Middleton but unfortunately for the Heat, they'll play Boston. The zone defense is implemented to limit scoring opportunities in the paint which generally leads to more 3-point attempts. If Miami guards this way in the conference finals, the Celtics can cause significantly more damage beyond the arc than the Sixers since the Boston big men (Horford and Grant Williams in particular) can thrive shooting a high volume of spot up jumpers from 3. The Heat also have to worry about whether Butler can sustain his huge jump in points and, especially, 3-point shooting. If Jimmy plays like his regular season version, which is still a great player, Miami could be in serious trouble. In fact, I think Boston's defense (who's slowed down Giannis, KD, and Kyrie in these playoffs) will cool off Butler which will play a big part in the Celtics winning this series. However, I wouldn't be shocked if the Heat advance because they're a great team with an elite defense too.