NBA Conference Finals | Celtics bounce back with Game 2 win over Heat

With 24 points, 12 assists, nine rebounds and three steals, Marcus Smart returned to the Boston Celtics lineup to dominate Miami Heat in a 127-102 victory to take Game 2 and level the NBA Eastern Conference Finals series 1-1

Marcus Smart watched the opening game of the Eastern Conference finals from the bench and didn't like what he witnessed.

Smart liked his view much better on Thursday, when he electrified Boston with a superb all-around effort as the Celtics rolled to a 127-102 victory over the host Miami Heat, evening the series at one win apiece.

Smart returned from a one-game absence caused by a right foot injury and contributed 24 points, 12 assists, nine rebounds and three steals in 40 minutes. Smart also made five 3-pointers to help the Celtics avenge their Game 1 setback.

The NBA Defensive Player of the Year didn't look the least bit hampered as he was his usual pesky self on defense while accumulating at least 20 points and 10 assists in a postseason game for the third time in his career.

"I was pumped. I felt bad that I couldn't be out there with my teammates and go to battle with them," Smart said of his absence. "We're playing against a really good Miami Heat team. I got to get my rest, I got my health back, I got to watch and see some things and come out to execute this game."

Smart also received top-notch help as Jayson Tatum scored 27 points, Jaylen Brown registered 24 points and eight rebounds and Grant Williams added 19 points for Boston.

Jimmy Butler led the Heat with 29 points. Gabe Vincent and Victor Oladipo added 14 points apiece while Tyler Herro scored 11 for Miami.