After crushing the Heat in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals, the Celtics were defeated in Game 3. Miami started strong and won the first quarter 39-18 to take a commanding lead.

Even though Boston managed to come closer, they were unable to close the gap and ended up losing the game by 6 points (109-103).

It was a tough game for Jayson Tatum who scored just 10 points (3/14 field goals) in 41 minutes of play. His co-star Jalen Brown did drop 40 points and was the top scorer of the game.

Al Hordford was asked after the game about how the team can get back on its feet when their two best players are struggling. The 35-year-old center was optimistic that the experience that Tatum and Brown already have will help them overcome any struggles.

“They do a lot of things for us. We put a lot on their shoulders,” Horford said about the team’s two stars. “Score the ball, make plays for others, pass, defend. It’s just a lot of things that go on. And it’s a challenge. It’s not easy.

“They’ve done such a good job all year. We rally, we try to do things. If for whatever reason it’s not going well for them, we’re trying get them going, be a boost there. But it’s not easy. It’s a lot being thrown in. It’s a lot to kind of in the moment kind of figure out.

“But I have the most confidence in my guys. Time and time again this year they figure it out. Jayson figures it out, Jalen figures it out. Those guys are battle tested. I believe they’ll be fine.”