The Boston Celtics massacred their East rivals in Game 1, 123-91, so much so that it set a franchise-record for a series-opening victory.

Catch the game tomorrow, 7:00 AM, Manila time.

AWAY: Philadelphia 76ers (0-1)

  • Tyrese Maxey
  • VJ Edgecombe
  • Paul George
  • Kelly Oubre Jr.
  • Andre Drummond

Philly was overwhelmed in Game 1, getting punched early and never recovering in a lopsided loss. The absence of Joel Embiid loomed large, stripping the Sixers of their interior presence and go-to anchor on both ends. Without him for the series, the margin for error is basically non-existent.

Tyrese Maxey did what he could as the primary option, but the supporting cast struggled to keep pace with Boston’s firepower. Paul George, VJ Edgecombe, and Kelly Oubre bring scoring ability, yet collectively, it still feels like an uphill battle to match the Celtics over four quarters. Shot-making, in particular, was a glaring issue.

The numbers tell the story: just 38.9% shooting from the field and a brutal 4-of-23 from three-point range. If the Sixers want any chance of leveling the series, they’ll need a dramatic turnaround in efficiency, and likely a near-perfect offensive performance to compensate for Embiid’s absence.

HOME: Boston Celtics (1-0)

Projected starting five:

  • Derrick White
  • Jaylen Brown
  • Jayson Tatum
  • Sam Hauser
  • Neemas Queta

Boston looked every bit like a contender in Game 1, cruising behind its stars and a well-oiled offensive system. Jayson Tatum flirted with a triple-double (25 points, 11 rebounds, 7 assists), while Jaylen Brown matched him with 25 points, setting the tone with balanced scoring and control.

The Celtics’ offensive rhythm was evident throughout. They knocked down 16 threes and racked up 31 assists, constantly finding the open man and punishing defensive breakdowns. Even the role players made an impact — Neemias Queta was a perfect 5-for-5 for 13 points in 15 quality minutes, providing efficient production inside.

Derrick White and Payton Pritchard didn’t shoot particularly well, but their playmaking helped keep the offense flowing, combining for 12 assists. Boston’s identity is clear: fast, versatile, and relentless from deep. With their size, pace, and shooting all clicking, Game 2 feels firmly within their control – it’s theirs to lose.

PICKS

Spread: Sixers (+14.5)
Over/Under:  Over (215.5)