4 takeaways as Celtics trade addition shines in blowout win over 76ers
Key Points:
- The Boston Celtics dominated the Philadelphia 76ers 144-106 at TD Garden, improving to 2-0 in preseason, with key players like Jayson Tatum, Paul George, and Payton Pritchard making their preseason debuts.
- Payton Pritchard led the Celtics with 25 points and seven assists off the bench, while Jayson Tatum added 23 points; the 76ers were missing several starters including Jaylen Brown, LeBron James, and Joel Embiid.
- Jaylen Brown, returning to Boston as a Sixers player, did not play but participated in warmups; his first official game at TD Garden as an opponent is scheduled for January 21.
- The Celtics showcased a potential new starting lineup featuring Mitchell Robinson at center and Jordan Walsh at wing, with Robinson impressing defensively and Walsh's spot still uncertain.
- Paul George had a strong defensive debut for Boston, recording five steals and contributing 13 points, five rebounds, and four assists in 25 minutes, despite a slow offensive start.