NBA Playoffs: Philadelphia 76ers at Boston Celtics – Odds, Prediction, & Start time

On Wednesday night, the 2nd-seed Celtics will host the 3rd-seed 76ers in an intriguing second-round matchup as they attempt to even the series at one game apiece. In Game 1, the Embiid-less 76ers upset the Celtics behind James Harden’s 45-point performance, including an eventual game winner with less than 15 seconds to go. With Embiid likely to remain out, Boston’s chances of tying the series have significantly improved, and it will be interesting to see if they can do so in Game 2. 

The Celtics entered Game 1 as double-digit favorites but were unable to contain James Harden, leading to Philadelphia stealing the game. Jayson Tatum had an impressive showing for Boston, scoring 39 points and grabbing 11 rebounds on 56% shooting, continuing his strong playoff performance so far. Jaylen Brown also contributed 23 points on an efficient 8-of-10 shooting. 

Despite having one of the best benches in the NBA, the Celtics’ depth did not show up in Game 1, forcing Tatum and Brown to log heavy minutes that may have contributed to their fourth-quarter collapse. Boston is undoubtedly the more talented team when the Sixers are without Embiid, but they must showcase their second-ranked defense if they hope to avoid falling behind 2-0 when the series shifts to Philadelphia. Even after their game 1 loss, the Celtics are the heavy favorite to make it out of the east, possessing -120 odds.

The 76ers enter Game 2 undefeated in the playoffs, having proven in Game 1 that they can win without MVP favorite Joel Embiid if necessary. James Harden had a superb performance, leading the Sixers with 45 points on 56.7% shooting and sinking seven three-pointers. Tyrese Maxey also chipped in with 26 points and four steals.

Although the 76ers emerged victorious in Game 1, replicating that success on Wednesday night will be a challenge. Playing with house money, if the Sixers can weather Boston’s expected fast start and keep the game close until the fourth quarter, anything is possible.

Out of the five matchups between these two squads this season, they have all been decided by single digits, and we believe that will remain the same in game two. While we expect the 76ers to cover the +9 point spread, we believe the Celtics will come away with the win.