The Celtics couldn't have asked for a much better first quarter as they look to bounce back in Monday's Game 4.
In fact, only once in their storied postseason history have they had a more dominant first quarter.
The Celtics' 29-11 lead after the opening 12 minutes on Monday was the second-biggest first-quarter lead they've ever had in the playoffs, with only a 19-point lead against the Bucks way back in 1974 topping it.
The lead could have been even bigger. The Celtics actually led 26-4 before Miami went on a quick 7-0 run to avoid further embarrassment.
The Heat opened the game going 8:38 without a field goal, which was the longest drought to open a game in 25 years. Their 11 points were the fewest they've ever had in the first quarter of a playoff game.
Derrick White -- starting for the injured Marcus Smart -- had seven points before the Heat had one, and Jayson Tatum outscored Miami 12-11 in the quarter.
Despite all the history and near-history made Monday night, it wasn't even the most lopsided first quarter of this series. The Heat led Boston by 21 (39-18) at the end of the first quarter in Game 3.
