The Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers appear poised to add another chapter to their postseason history as their first-round series shifts to Philadelphia. The series is currently tied at one game each. This marks a renewal of one of the league’s original rivalries, reminiscent of the epic performances and finishes of the 1980s. Playoff series between these two teams often determined which team would represent the conference in the NBA Finals.
With the series tied, suspense has entered the building.
Maxey’s Impact on the Sixers’ Offence
Tyrese Maxey finished Game 2 with 29 points and nine assists. The last time the Sixers were led in the playoffs by a quicksilver point guard who caused whiplash and broke ankles and was tough to contain was Iverson.
Maxey can shift gears off the dribble and change directions on a dime. He can score on anyone the Celtics offer up in defense, sometimes two Celtics. How Maxey craves the ball in big moments is something to behold.
Maxey was always a shooting guard trapped in a point guard’s body, although in his case, that’s not such a bad thing. If Maxey has the will, the Sixers might find a way to win more than a game against Boston, and Maxey definitely has the will.
Embiid’s Inactivity and Its Consequences
The elephant in the room is the former Kia MVP and Sixers starting center. He can change an entire game or maybe even a best-of-seven series. However, he is currently inactive because of injury.
Home Court Advantage and the Sixers’ Challenge
The Sixers have the next two games in Philly and should have an emotional boost. Expect all the old-time legends (like Allen Iverson and Julius Erving) to sit courtside and provide motivation.
However, Iverson and Erving can’t suit up and play for the Sixers. It’s up to the current players lacking in championship experience to keep the series moving in a positive direction. That won’t be a simple task against a team that’s healthier, bringing higher expectations and championship mettle with Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown.
Whether this series elevates in terms of intrigue and intensity, therefore, falls on the shoulders of the Sixers and whether they can either maintain the home court or at least split the next two games.
The Pressure of the Playoffs
The playoffs have a way of exposing you for the player you truly are. Every game and often every possession is magnified along with the demands. Some players gravitate toward this, while others regress.
Maxey’s shooting hasn’t always been sharp in this series, but he doesn’t allow the misses to discourage him. As the Sixers continue without Joel Embiid, Maxey can’t afford to lose confidence.
Game 3 is tonight (7 ET, Prime Video) in Philadelphia.