The Boston Celtics aren't going away.

The Miami Heat held their ground at home in the first two games, but the Celtics appear intent on making this a series.

Mike Bibby and Zydrunas Ilgauskus only combined for 27 minutes, but they had two total points. Sharpshooter James Jones was ineffective in Game Three, and his outside shooting was sorely missed. LeBron James and Dwyane Wade combined to only shoot one-for-eight from beyond the arc.

But one player who was noticeably absent for the second time in the series was Chris Bosh.

Bosh, who shot a miserable one-of-six in Game Three, needs to put forth a better effort if the Heat expect to advance. At 6'10, Bosh is the clearly the Heat's most important big man, and depth is a serious issue for Miami.

The Heat can't afford for Bosh to play poorly. He already struggled in Game One, and when Bosh is ineffective, it often spells doom for the Heat.

Given all the elements that were out there [Saturday] night ... they were so hyped, Bosh said, according to ESPN.com. My emotions got the best of me early on and it kind of dictated what I was doing for the rest of the game.

Head coach Erik Spoelstra will need Bosh to control his nerves, and improve his defense.

Bosh and 6'9 Joel Anthony will have to put more pressure on Kevin Garnett. The Celtics' big man went for 28 points and 18 rebounds in Game Three.

Miami could expect players like Ray Allen and Paul Pierce to have big games, but a rejuvenated Garnett might be the difference in the series. It will be up to Bosh to limit Garnett, and not let him run wild again.

Bosh's ability to contain Garnett, as well as other Celtics' big men, might be what the series hinges on.

Much was made of James's decision to bolt from Cleveland for Miami, while Bosh has been the superstar that received less attention.

His departure from Toronto was met with less fanfare, but now his performance with Miami will be under the microscope should he have repeat offensive letdowns like Games One and Three, and the Heat bow out to the Celtics.

It's possible that a pinch nerve in Bosh's neck was bothering him more than the Heat are letting on.

Will Bosh step up tonight at TD Garden?