TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — The Boston Celtics handled business against the Philadelphia 76ers in a 123-101 victory where many players faced their old team.
The main headliner was Jaylen Brown vs. Jayson Tatum. After nine seasons together, the two stars on the 2024 NBA championship team were separated. Philadelphia traded Brown to the Clippers for Paul George, two first-rounders, and two second-rounders.
Tatum entered this game averaging 27.1 points, 6 rebounds, and 7.9 assists per game. Brown was averaging 22.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4 assists.
Before tipoff, the former teammates said nothing; Tatum met Brown only with a pat on the chest.
Tatum proceeded to score 21 points with six rebounds and four assists on 47.1% shooting. Brown recorded 13 points, five rebounds, and two assists on 44.4% from the field. While the main storyline was Brown versus Tatum, George stood out in his return to Philadelphia.
George erupted for 36 points, including 14 in the fourth quarter to extend the lead for Boston. This performance was the highest-scoring total by an individual against the Sixers so far this season.
Anfernee Simons was another player who had to square off against his former team. He recorded 17 points and three rebounds on 65.4% true shooting percentage.
There were many factors that went into Boston’s victory at Philadelphia's expense. The 76ers struggled to execute on 3-pointers, shooting 11 of 37 from beyond the arc and losing the turnover battle 13-8.
Joel Embiid struggled, finishing with 16 points and six rebounds, but shot 22.2% from the field. LeBron James was also quiet with 11 points, eight rebounds, and 5 assists on 33.3% shooting.
Boston continues to roll as they extend their winning streak to four games and remain at the top of the East.
They look to maintain their momentum as they march into Toronto to face the 5-5 Raptors on Wednesday.
Philadelphia falls to 9-3 and slips below Boston in the standings. They will look to regroup against the same Raptors team on Thursday.