The Boston Celtics dropped Game 5 of the Eastern Conference semifinals on Tuesday, falling 115-103 to the Philadelphia 76ers. Now on the wrong side of a 3-2 series split, Boston looks to extend its season on the road Thursday night. Otherwise, it will suffer an early postseason exit.
The Sixers had it going on early with Joel Embiid leading the way. The reigning MVP finished with 33 points and 7 rebounds. Right behind him was James Harden, who once again picked apart the Celtics’ defense with 17 points, 8 rebounds and 10 assists. The plucky Tyrese Maxey contributed 30 points and 7 rebounds.
The Sixers were fully dialed in and fully in control from the jump, while Boston spun its tires on both ends.
It’s worth noting that during the 2022 postseason, the Celtics found themselves facing a 3-2 deficit in the conference semifinals. The team responded with a massive road win over the defending champion Milwaukee Bucks before closing out the series in a thrilling Game 7.
What happens next is not set in stone.
Here’s what you missed from Boston’s 115-103 loss to Philadelphia:
Derrick White has been named to the NBA’s 2023 All-Defensive Second Team. https://t.co/gj0Hvq1uDT
— The Celtics Wire (@TheCelticsWire) May 9, 2023