How does Boston view this series? We asked CelticsBlog
Key Points:
- The Philadelphia 76ers face the Boston Celtics in the playoffs, aiming to beat their rival for the first time since 1983, but they are without star Joel Embiid due to an appendectomy and enter as the seventh seed in the East.
- The Celtics have evolved significantly since their last matchup, now featuring Jayson Tatum back in the lineup, making them a tougher and more cohesive team focused on strong defense and limiting rim attempts.
- Without Embiid, the Sixers rely heavily on Tyrese Maxey, Paul George, and rookie VJ Edgecombe, with George’s availability seen as a crucial factor in improving Philadelphia’s competitiveness against Boston.
- CelticsBlog analyst Noa Dalzell expects the Celtics to win the series in five games, highlighting Boston’s depth and the impact of key players like Tatum and Jaylen Brown, while noting Paul George could be a potential X-factor for Philadelphia.