CAMDEN, N.J.–The Philadelphia 76ers are likely going to have to battle the Boston Celtics without Joel Embiid, at least to begin this series. Embiid is expected to be doubtful for Game 1 after suffering a sprained LCL in the first round against the Brooklyn Nets.
In place of Embiid, the Sixers will likely turn to Paul Reed again in his place. Reed started the Game 4 win over the Nets and he provided some very good production scoring 10 points and grabbing 15 rebounds. He was all over the place with his energy and he gave the Nets a lot of problems in Round 1.
Now, he will have to do the same as he prepares to take on a bigger role for Philadelphia in the absence of Embiid.
“I keep the same mental preparation, physical preparation as I would even if he was playing,” said Reed. “I don’t change up what I’m doing any differently. I keep my same mental focus.”
It does help Reed that he was able to produce at a high level in place of Embiid in the win over the Nets. That gives him the confidence to be able to move forward against the Celtics and continue to produce.
“It does a lot for my confidence knowing that I can step in and provide valuable minutes for the team and give us a boost that we needed in order to close out the series,” added Reed. “So now I feel like I can go into the next series and give us another boost. If Jo’s not playing, I’m confident that I’ll come in, give us a lot of energy, and help us win.”
The Sixers will need big minutes from Reed until Embiid can return against this very tough Celtics team.
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