Tyrese Maxey led the Philadelphia 76ers to a thrilling 118-114 victory over the Boston Celtics on Christmas Day, scoring an impressive 33 points along with 12 assists. The game showcased Maxey’s scoring prowess, especially in the critical moments of the fourth quarter, where he contributed 13 points. His sharp layup early in the final minutes helped secure a vital seven-point lead, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure.
Joel Embiid also shined for the 76ers, scoring 27 points and grabbing nine rebounds, while hitting 4 out of 5 attempts from beyond the arc. Despite a pregame mishap where he injured his ankle, Embiid played through the pain, showcasing his resilience by hitting key free throws late in the game to fend off a Celtics comeback.
The Celtics had commendable performances from Jayson Tatum, who netted 32 points and grabbed 15 rebounds, along with Jaylen Brown’s 23 points and Derrick White’s contribution of 21 points. However, Kristaps Porzingis’s absence in the second half due to an ankle injury was a significant setback for the team, as they struggled to close the gap, marking their second consecutive loss for the first time this season.
This result may highlight a turning point for the 76ers, as they seem poised to make a deeper playoff push if Embiid maintains his health. They face the Utah Jazz in their next game, and this win could serve as a morale booster as they journey through a challenging road trip. Meanwhile, the Celtics will look to rebound quickly as they prepare to host the Indiana Pacers.
Overall, this Christmas Day matchup delivered excitement and showcased the competitive spirit of both teams, leaving fans hopeful for what lies ahead as the NBA season progresses.