The Boston Celtics are set to face the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday, aiming to avoid back-to-back losses for the first time this season. The Celtics, who were without Jayson Tatum due to illness, suffered a 108-104 loss to the Orlando Magic on Monday night, marking one of their worst performances of the season.
Despite holding a 15-point halftime lead, Boston was outscored 65-46 in the final two quarters. Orlando’s Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner are recovering from injuries, and the Magic also lost sixth man Moritz Wagner to a torn ACL.
Tatum, who leads the Celtics in scoring, rebounding, and assists, was scratched minutes before tip-off. Boston set season lows for points (104), assists (13), 3-point attempts (32), and made 3-pointers (eight) in the loss. Jaylen Brown, however, shone with 35 points, nine rebounds, and four assists.
The 76ers, on the other hand, are looking to build momentum after a 111-106 victory over the San Antonio Spurs on Monday. Joel Embiid was ejected in the second quarter for two technical fouls, but Tyrese Maxey stepped up with 32 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists, including 12 points in the fourth quarter.
This will be the first meeting between the Celtics and 76ers this season. Boston is averaging 119.1 points per game and allowing 109.6, while Philadelphia is scoring 105.9 points per game and giving up 110.4.
The Celtics will be eager to bounce back and secure a win on Christmas Day, while the 76ers will look to continue their recent success. It promises to be an exciting and competitive game.
