The Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers have a long history of rivalry in the NBA, and their latest playoff series has been quite a spectacle. This matchup marks the 23rd time these teams have met in the playoffs, and it’s the ninth series that’s gone to a decisive seventh game.
Recent statistics show that the Celtics were on a roll, leading the series 3-1 at one point. But now, with star player Jayson Tatum out due to injury, the stakes are high. Over the last few games, their offense has struggled, scoring just 104 points across 123 possessions.
Meanwhile, the 76ers have shown inconsistency throughout the season. Often plagued by injuries, they still possess the talent to compete with the best teams in the league. As they head into a must-win Game 7, here are some key points to consider.
Celtics’ Offensive Struggles
In their wins, the Celtics scored 129.1 points per 100 possessions. In contrast, their losses saw that number drop to 101.1. The main culprit seems to be their 3-point shooting; they shot over 36% in all wins but fell below 30% in losses. In Game 6, they struggled even more at the free-throw line, hitting only 9 of 16 shots.
Tatum’s Absence
With Tatum sidelined, the Celtics must change their game strategy. A significant play involved Tatum working against 76ers’ star Joel Embiid in ball screens. Without Tatum, the team will need to rely on other players to step up.
Slow Starts for the Sixers
Philadelphia has had a rough time starting games. They scored only 85.7 points per 100 possessions in the first quarter, the worst among all playoff teams. Inconsistent shooting from their starters has contributed to slow starts, putting them at a disadvantage.
Celtics’ Starting Lineup Struggles
Boston’s starters have averaged just 96.5 points per 100 possessions, the lowest among the playoff teams. The performance of key players will be crucial if they hope to rise to the occasion.
Jump Shooting Focus
Interestingly, both teams have relied heavily on jump shots. The Celtics have only taken 35.8% of their shots in the paint, the lowest in any playoff series over the past four years. Even Embiid has shifted to shooting more from mid-range, with an alarming low number of points coming from the paint.
Transition Game
Both teams have struggled in transition, averaging only 34.7 points per game. This affects their overall scoring, and both sides may need to find ways to create more fast-break opportunities to gain an edge.
Clutch Situations
Finally, only one game in this series has been close in the final minutes. In clutch situations, the Celtics have struggled in the regular season, while the 76ers showed strength in the clutch defense.
As we look ahead to a thrilling Game 7, the players’ performances and ability to adapt will determine who advances to the next round.
For further insights and up-to-date statistics on the teams, you can visit NBA.com or ESPN.
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