The series is a best-of-seven that begins Sunday, April 19, and could stretch into May if Philadelphia remains competitive; Game 6 is scheduled for April 30. The extended postseason slate offers Embiid a narrow window to rejoin the lineup if his recovery progresses more quickly than usual.
Sixers coach Nick Nurse confirmed Embiid will not play in Game 1 and declined to speculate on future availability, saying the team is focused on Sunday’s matchup and will adapt as the series unfolds.
Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla acknowledged the caliber of a healthier Sixers unit, noting their depth and the production from Maxey and a growing supporting cast. Embiid is 0-3 in playoff series against Boston, with a 3-12 all-time mark in those clashes, underscoring the challenge facing Philadelphia without its star center.
Boston will open the series with two games at TD Garden, on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET and Tuesday at 7 p.m. ET, setting the stage for a tightly contested first round.
