Celtics Demolish 76ers 121-87

The Boston Celtics defeated the Philadelphia 76ers 121-87, tying the series 1-1. In Joel Embiid’s return, the Celtics upped their defensive intensity and ran an efficient, clean offense, while Philadelphia languished from three and couldn’t establish any rhythm all night.

Three point shooting was a major emphasis from Joe Mazzulla before tonight. With Joel Embiid back and swatting layups away, the C’s took more than double the long range attempts they had in Game 1, hitting at a 39.2% rate. It took two and a half quarters, but the Celtics eventually broke the game open thanks to a massive third quarter where they outscored Philadelphia 35-16 and shot 7/15 from three. By the early 4th, both team’s benches emptied out and the Celtics cruised to a victory.

Jaylen Brown led the way with 25 points and 4 assists, with Malcolm Brogdon trailing close behind with 23. In total, five Celtics ended in double figures, none of them being Jayson Tatum. Tonight was the first time Tatum recorded a single-digit point total since November 2021. This was largely in part to first half foul trouble and the Celtics massive 4th quarter lead.

The offense ran a bit smoother tonight, but the Celtics truly won this game on defense. They guarded the three point line tough all night, crowding the Sixers’ shooters and forcing an ugly 6/30 night from beyond the arc. They also employed double teams much more successfully against James Harden and Joel Embiid. Both had practically no room to work with, and Embiid ended the night with a game-high three turnovers.

“I thought JB did a great job of getting us started with his defensive presence,” said Mazzulla. “It was passed down to Smart, to Grant, to Al, to everybody. We did a great job.”

The only scary moment for Boston came in the 3rd quarter when Marcus Smart, who bore the brunt of a Joel Embiid fall, ran to the locker room grabbing his shoulder. He emerged with a large ice pack, but eventually reentered the game. 

Considering the circumstances, Philadelphia got a decent enough game out of Joel Embiid, who finished with 15 points in 26 minutes. He looked rusty on offense for most of the first half, but he got to the line at a good rate and was massive on defense, ending the game with five blocks. Simply put, they lost because of their horrendous three point shooting and their other players being unable to replicate the games they had in Game 1.

Tobias Harris and Tyrese Maxey had solid games, but James Harden was putrid, shooting 2/14 from the field and 0/6 from three. De’Anthony Melton, who had a strong first half in Game 1, ended with just 2 points as well.

According to Mazzulla, the Celtics were “pissed” for the past 48 hours, and they sure played like it. They’ll look to carry this momentum into Game 3 on Friday night in Philadelphia.