76ers Force Game 7 Against Celtics After Two Straight Wins

Key facts

• 76ers won Game 6 in Philadelphia, 106-93, tying the series 3-3.
• Boston Celtics host Game 7 at TD Garden.
• Celtics shot 28% and 29% from three in the last two games, compared to 41.7% in wins.
• 76ers have the second-best turnover percentage and third-best defensive net rating over the last two games.
• Joel Embiid averages 26.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 7.3 assists in 35.7 minutes per game in the series.
• Game 7 airs on NBC Sports and streams on Peacock.

A Series Reborn

The Philadelphia 76ers have erased a 3-1 series deficit, forcing a Game 7 against the Boston Celtics after a 106-93 victory in Philadelphia. The Celtics, who once held a commanding lead, now face a do-or-die contest at TD Garden. The 76ers' resurgence coincides with the return of Joel Embiid, who has averaged 26.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 7.3 assists over 35.7 minutes per game in his three appearances. Philadelphia is 2-1 with Embiid in the lineup.

Celtics' Three-Point Struggles

Boston's offense has faltered from beyond the arc in the past two games, shooting 28% and 29% from three-point range. In contrast, the Celtics connected on 41.7% of their three-pointers in their four wins this series, compared to 27.7% in their three losses. The Celtics average 119.7 points per game in playoff victories but only 95.7 in defeats. The team's reliance on outside shooting has become a liability against Philadelphia's improved defense.

Philadelphia's Defensive Dominance

Over the last two games, the 76ers have posted the second-best turnover percentage and third-best defensive net rating among all 16 playoff teams. This defensive intensity has been pivotal in neutralizing Boston's offense. Philadelphia's ability to force turnovers and contest shots has disrupted the Celtics' rhythm, leading to two consecutive wins when elimination loomed.

Game 7 Details and Odds

The decisive game will be broadcast on NBC Sports and streamed on Peacock, marking the NBA's return to NBC after 24 years. Tipoff is set for TD Garden, with the Celtics installed as -8.5 point favorites. -290 and Philadelphia at +235, with the total set at 207.5. Expected starting lineups for both teams have been announced, with no major injuries reported beyond those already accounted for in the series.

Historical Context and Stakes

A 3-1 comeback is rare in NBA playoff history, and the 76ers are one win away from completing it. The Celtics, meanwhile, aim to avoid becoming the latest team to squander such a lead. The winner advances to the next round, with momentum and legacy on the line. For Philadelphia, a Game 7 victory would validate their mid-series adjustments and Embiid's impact. For Boston, it would reaffirm their status as title contenders.

The bottom line

• The 76ers have tied the series 3-3 after being down 3-1, with two straight wins.
• Joel Embiid's return has been crucial, averaging 26 points, 8 rebounds, and 7.3 assists.
• Boston's three-point shooting has plummeted to 28% and 29% in the last two games.
• Philadelphia boasts elite defensive metrics: second-best turnover percentage and third-best net rating.
• Game 7 airs on NBC Sports and Peacock, with the Celtics as 8.5-point favorites.
• The winner advances to the next playoff round, with historic implications for both teams.