Celtics Vs 6ers Game 1

Philadelphia 76ers Steal Home-Court Advantage in Game 1 Victory Over Boston Celtics

Led by James Harden's Playoff Career-High, 76ers Grab 1-0 Lead

In a thrilling opening game of their Eastern Conference Semifinals series, the Philadelphia 76ers defied expectations and defeated the Boston Celtics 119-115 at TD Garden on Sunday, May 1st, 2023. Despite the absence of star center Joel Embiid, the 76ers rode the brilliance of James Harden, who tied his playoff career-high with 45 points.

Key Takeaways from Game 1

Here are five takeaways from the stunning outcome that handed the 76ers an early 1-0 advantage and put the Celtics in an early hole:

1. James Harden's Dominance: Harden was unstoppable throughout the game, connecting on 16-of-27 shots from the field, including 5-of-11 from three-point range. His aggressive playmaking and clutch shooting proved to be the difference-maker for the 76ers.
2. Embiid's Absence: Embiid's absence was a major blow to the 76ers, but the team rallied around Harden and played with determination and resilience. Their ability to overcome adversity and win without their star player is a testament to their depth and championship aspirations.
3. Boston's Poor Shooting: The Celtics struggled to find their rhythm offensively, shooting just 41.7% from the field and 28.6% from three-point range. Their inability to knock down shots consistently allowed the 76ers to stay in the game and eventually take control.
4. Philadelphia's Defense: The 76ers' defense was impressive, holding the Celtics to just 115 points despite Boston's reputation for scoring in bunches. Their ability to contest shots, force turnovers, and limit second chances proved to be crucial in securing the victory.
5. Series Outlook: The 76ers' Game 1 victory gives them a significant advantage in the series. However, the Celtics are a resilient team with plenty of experience, and they will be determined to bounce back in Game 2. The series is now poised for an intense and entertaining battle, with both teams hungry for a trip to the Eastern Conference Finals.

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