Tatum, back from a torn right Achilles, anchored the win with 25 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists in his first playoff game since the injury, leading Boston from the outset and scoring 21 of his points in the first half to spark a 64–46 halftime cushion.
Even as he continues rehab, Tatum’s impact was evident, helping the Celtics showcase depth as they rotated 12 players and relied on balanced scoring, including Brown’s 26 and Neemias Queta’s 13 off the bench, while connecting on 16 three-pointers.
Philadelphia was shorthanded without Joel Embiid and leaned on Tyrese Maxey (21 points, eight assists) to carry the offense, but the 76ers shot 4-for-23 from beyond the arc and struggled to answer Boston’s aggressive defense.
Game 2 shifts to Boston on Tuesday night, with the Celtics aiming to push the series to 2–0 before traveling to Philadelphia, leveraging home-court energy and momentum from a complete performance.
Looking ahead, Boston’s continued progression from its star and the rest of the roster remains the storyline, as the club appears deep, balanced and positioned to challenge for a lasting postseason run, rekindling discussions of a possible Finals ceiling if Tatum reaches full form.
