The Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers are set to face off in a crucial Game 6 matchup on Friday, with both teams looking to advance to the next round of the NBA playoffs. Here are three things to know heading into the game:
- Celtics’ injury woes
The Celtics will once again be without star forward Jaylen Brown, who has been ruled out for the rest of the season due to a wrist injury. Brown was averaging 24.7 points per game in the playoffs before suffering the injury, and his absence has been a major blow to Boston’s offense. Additionally, guard Kemba Walker is questionable for Game 6 due to a knee injury. - Joel Embiid’s dominance
The 76ers have been carried by the dominant play of center Joel Embiid throughout the playoffs. Embiid is averaging 28.6 points and 10.8 rebounds per game in the playoffs, and his inside-outside game has been nearly impossible for Boston to stop. If Embiid continues to play at a high level, the 76ers will be a tough team to beat. - Tatum’s brilliance
Despite the absence of Brown, the Celtics have still managed to stay competitive thanks in large part to the brilliance of forward Jayson Tatum. Tatum is averaging 29.6 points per game in the playoffs and has been a one-man wrecking crew at times. If Tatum can continue to score at a high level and get some help from his supporting cast, the Celtics have a chance to pull off the upset in Game 6 and force a decisive Game 7.
In summary, Game 6 between the Celtics and 76ers is shaping up to be a must-watch affair, with both teams looking to advance to the next round of the playoffs. While the Celtics will be without Jaylen Brown once again, they still have the firepower to give the 76ers a run for their money if Tatum and company can step up. However, the 76ers have been dominant all season long and will be a tough out, especially if Embiid continues to play at an MVP level.