NBA star Jimmy Butler goes berserk in epic Playoffs performance

The NBA has witnessed another special performance by Miami star Jimmy Butler, who had statisticians reaching for record books.

Jimmy Butler caught fire. Michael Reaves/Getty Images/AFP.

Jimmy Butler has made several more entries into the record books after another historic performance in the Heat’s victory over the Celtics on Wednesday (AEST).

Miami has gone up 1-0 in the Eastern Conference Finals after a 118-107 comeback win over Boston in Florida — where Butler put the rest of his team on his back in the second half.

Butler scored 41, including 27 in the second half, as the Heat broke the Celtics into pieces during a 39-14 third quarter blitz.

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Butler received scoring support from Tyler Herro, with 18 points, and Gabe Vincent with 17 points — but it was a one-man show at FTX Arena.

It was the third time this post-season that Butler has scored 40 points in a game. He was also brutally clinical in helping the Heat eliminate the 76ers in the conference semi-finals.

Butler 1, Tatum 0. Michael Reaves/Getty Images/AFP.

He had statisticians reaching for the record books. His stat line of 41 points, nine rebounds, five assists and four steals has only been achieved by seven other players in a playoffs game — LeBron James, Russell Westbrook, Paul Pierce, Allen Iverson, Michael Jordan, Patrick Ewing and Larry Bird, according to ESPN Stats and Info.

Jimmy Butler recorded his 5th career playoff game with 40 points on 60% shooting, tied with Charles Barkley for 3rd-most over the last 30 postseasons.

The only players with more are LeBron James (12) and Shaquille O'Neal (8). pic.twitter.com/GWoTgLkXLz

— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) May 18, 2022

Trailing 62-54 at half time, it became the Butler show as the Heat moved closer to a spot in the NBA Finals.

The first half had been all about Celtics star Jayson Tatum, who was held to just eight second half points while shooting one of seven from the field.

The win owed as much to Miami’s renewed defensive effort in the second half, with the Heat shutting down Tatum, while coming up with turnovers and 11 blocks.

Earlier, Miami were unable to cope with the movement of Tatum, who bagged a career-high 21 points in the opening two quarters, shooting nine-of-14 from the field.

Boston led by as much as 13 at one stage in the second quarter

Boston chipped away at the Miami lead to get within single digits, but Miami held on to claim the series opener.

Game two takes place in Miami on Friday (AEST).

— with AFP

Originally published as NBA star Jimmy Butler goes berserk in epic Playoffs performance