Pick #5: Nikola Jović Under 7.5 Points (-118 DraftKings)

In the high-stakes matchup between the Boston Celtics and Miami Heat, taking the under on Nikola Jović's 7.5 point line isn't just smart—it's a no-brainer.

In the swirling vortex of NBA playoffs frenzy, where every point, pass, and play is scrutinized, the spotlight often falls on the unlikeliest of heroes. Yet, as we dive deep into the Celtics vs. Heat saga, it's not the towering figures of Tatum or Brown that we're zoning in on—it's Miami Heat's Nikola Jović, and why betting the under on his 7.5 point line is akin to finding a golden ticket in your chocolate bar.

First off, let's crunch some numbers and lace up our reality boots. Jović, while a promising talent in the Heat's arsenal, has yet to become the offensive powerhouse that can reliably punch through defenses, especially those as formidable as the Celtics'. Boston's defensive prowess is no joke, with a squad that's been smothering opponents' scoring chances like it's their job—well, because it is. They led the NBA in several defensive categories during the regular season, turning the court into a no-fly zone for rising stars and seasoned vets alike.

Diving deeper, let's not overlook the elephant in the room—the Heat's current injury woes. With key playmakers sidelined, the Celtics' defense can afford to tighten its grip on Miami's available scorers. But here's the twist: even with more opportunities, Jović's playstyle and current role within the Heat's game plan don't scream "scoring spree." Sure, he's got the skills and the height, but against Boston's brick wall? Those points won't come easy.

Moreover, the Heat's approach in Game 2 screams adaptation. After getting bombarded from downtown in Game 1, Erik Spoelstra's crew is bound to pivot, emphasizing smarter shot selection and possibly a more distributed scoring effort. Translation: even if Jović sees more of the ball, it's not just about shooting; it's about making those shots count against a team that's been there, blocked that.

Let's not skate past another critical piece of the puzzle—Miami's three-point strategy. With Boston setting records from beyond the arc and Miami struggling to keep up, the focus will be on closing that gap. Jović, not primarily known for his long-range artillery, might find himself in more of a supportive role, facilitating rather than finishing. 

Wrapping this all up with a bow, taking the under on Nikola Jović's points isn't just a bet—it's a testament to understanding the ebb and flow of playoff basketball. The Celtics' defense, Miami's adjusted game plan, and Jović's current role within the Heat ecosystem all point towards a scenario where his contributions, while valuable, might not light up the scoreboard in the way over-enthusiasts hope.

In the grand chessboard of NBA playoffs betting, where every move counts, placing your chips on the under for Jović's 7.5 point line feels less like a gamble and more like a calculated maneuver. After all, in the clash of titans that is the Celtics vs. Heat, sometimes it's the subtler, strategic plays that yield the grandest rewards.