Joel Embiid Bounces Back from Injury Scare to Propel Sixers Past Celtics in Thrilling 118-114 Victory!

Joel Embiid shook off a pregame fall to lead the Philadelphia 76ers to a 118-114 victory over the Boston Celtics on Wednesday, scoring 27 points and grabbing nine rebounds. He showcased his shooting prowess by making 4 of 5 from beyond the arc, and he hit two crucial free throws with just 3 seconds left, thwarting Boston’s last-ditch effort to rally.

Tyrese Maxey also had an impressive performance, contributing 33 points and 12 assists. His standout moment came in the fourth quarter, where he scored 13 points, including a rapid layup that extended the Sixers’ lead to seven points with approximately one minute remaining, following a quick inbounds play with only 1.1 seconds on the shot clock. Caleb Martin added to the scoring with 23 points, hitting an impressive 7 of 9 from 3-point range.

For the Celtics, Jayson Tatum led the way with 32 points and 15 rebounds, while Jaylen Brown chipped in 23 points and Derrick White contributed 21. In a festive touch, the Celtics donned red socks and leggings paired with their green jerseys, adding a splash of Christmas cheer to the matchup.

However, Boston faced a setback as center Kristaps Porzingis, who has struggled with injuries this season, did not return for the second half due to an ankle injury.

Takeaways

76ers: If Embiid can maintain his health, the Sixers might finally break through in the Eastern Conference.

Celtics: This loss marks their second consecutive defeat, a first for them this season.

Key moment

Despite suffering an ankle injury during pregame warmups, Embiid played through the pain, donning a black mask to protect his sinus fracture. He limped to the free throw line after being fouled on a drive with two minutes left, as the Sixers led 108-105.