Boston jumped out to a fast start and sustained the pressure throughout, setting the tone with an aggressive start that the Sixers were unable to match. The Celtics’ early action allowed them to widen the gap and control the flow of the game from the opening minutes.
After the win, Tatum credited Philadelphia’s depth and coaching, noting that the 76ers are a talented team with a championship-caliber staff led by Nick Nurse. He stressed that Embiid’s absence doesn’t erase the challenge and that Boston expects Philadelphia to respond with a stronger effort in Game 2.
Embiid remains out as he continues to recover from surgery and hasn’t cleared for basketball activity. While he has shown some progress this week, he will not play in Tuesday’s game, leaving Philadelphia to navigate the series without their star center.
Tatum also pointed out that Philadelphia is a “really complete team” even without Embiid, with other players prepared to step up and compete. Boston will need to stay prepared for adjustments as the Sixers attempt to tighten their defense and pick up their pace.
On the Sixers’ side, Tyrese Maxey and Paul George remain as max-contracted veterans available to lead Philadelphia’s charge, while president of basketball operations Daryl Morey did not add notable acquisitions at the trade deadline. A 0-2 deficit would magnify questions about the team’s direction and offseason plans.
With a 1-0 series lead in hand, the Celtics head into Game 2 ready to extend their advantage, while the Sixers aim to respond with a more polished performance and a stronger effort in what promises to be a tougher matchup.
