Author: Jeff Zillgitt, USA TODAY

NBA ponders next move as escalating fines, now up to $100,000, haven’t seemed to deter Dallas bench players from standing up during playoffs.

Playing without star Jimmy Butler in the second half, the Heat held on for a gutsy 109-103 road win over the Celtics and 2-1 series lead.

Jimmy Butler is shouldering a heavy burden as Miami’s top scorer against the tough Boston defense, but the Heat know he can’t do it all on his own.

Jabari Smith of Auburn, Paolo Banchero of Duke, Chet Holmgren of Gonzaga and Jaden Ivey of Purdue are expected to be the top draft prospects.

Jimmy Butler scored 41 points, including 27 in the second half as Miami took control on the way to a 118-107 win and 1-0 series lead.

Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum lead the way, Grant Williams provides spark from long range in Game 7 as Celtics eliminate defending NBA champions.

Jayson Tatum scored 46 points as the Celtics overcame 44 from Giannis Antetokounmpo to beat the Bucks 108-95 and force Game 7 back in Boston.