3 important X-Factors for Sixers in their playoff series with Celtics

For the Philadelphia 76ers to knock off the Boston Celtics, here are three X-Factors for them to get the job done.

Matisse Thybulle’s defense

Kevin C. Cox/Pool Photo-USA TODAY Sports

Coach Brett Brown already admitted that Thybulle will play a huge role in this series. Seeing as his calling card in the league has been his elite defensive play on that end of the floor, he will face a stiff test in his debut playoff appearance. He will have to defend the likes of All-Star Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Kemba Walker, and Gordon Hayward.

Thybulle’s defensive numbers against those players, per NBA Stats:

  • Tatum: 3:11 of time four points 2-for-6 shooting
  • Brown: 4:06 of time six points 2-for-5 shooting two turnovers
  • Walker: 10:06 of time 17 points 4-for-12 shooting, four turnovers, four blocks
  • Hayward: 3:37 of time six points 1-for-2 shooting
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