By Eurohoops team / info@Eurohoops.net
The Boston Celtics opened their playoff campaign with authority, defeating the Philadelphia 76ers 123–91 in Game 1 of their first-round series at TD Garden to take an early 1–0 lead.
Boston set the tone from the outset, building a double-digit advantage early and maintaining control throughout. A strong first-half display, led by Jayson Tatum, gave the home side a 64–46 cushion at the break.
Tatum, returning to postseason action after last year’s injury setback, finished with 25 points, 11 rebounds, and 7 assists in an all-around performance.
Jaylen Brown led all scorers with 26 points, including a decisive 16-point stretch in the third quarter that effectively put the game out of reach. Portuguese big man Nemias Queta started at center and finished the game with 13 points.
The Celtics’ offensive rhythm and defensive pressure proved too much for Philadelphia to handle over the four quarters.
The Sixers, playing without Joel Embiid due to recent surgery, struggled to generate consistent offense. Tyrese Maxey led his team with 21 points and eight assists, while Paul George added 17 points. Rookie VJ Edgecombe contributed 13 points in his playoff debut, showing flashes despite the overall team difficulties.
The result leaves the 76ers with adjustments to make ahead of Game 2, which will also take place in Boston.The winner of this matchup will advance to face either the New York Knicks or the Atlanta Hawks in the Eastern Conference semifinals, with New York currently holding a 1–0 advantage in that series.