The Philadelphia 76ers have revived their championship aspirations, claiming a crucial 118-114 win over the defending champion Boston Celtics on Christmas Day. The victory marked the team’s eighth consecutive win in its last 11 games and catapulted them into contention for a spot in the Eastern Conference playoffs.
Joel Embiid led the way with 27 points and nine rebounds, despite twisting his ankle during warm-ups. The star center attributed the team’s resurgence to their ability to “put it together” and stay healthy. Embiid and teammate Tyrese Maxey, who chipped in with 33 points, formed a formidable duo that outplayed their opponents.
The Celtics, meanwhile, struggled with a listless defensive performance that allowed the 76ers to capitalize on open shots. Boston’s Jaylen Brown acknowledged that his team was “too casual” and failed to execute aggressive plays, which ultimately sealed their fate.
The win marked a significant turning point for the 76ers, who were once relegated to the basement of the Eastern Conference with a dismal 3-14 record just a month ago. With this victory, they have climbed within striking distance of the playoffs, setting them up for a potential deep postseason run.
As they embark on a four-game West Coast trip, the 76ers will look to build on their momentum and answer questions about their ability to sustain wins. For Embiid and Maxey, the newfound chemistry and camaraderie are key factors in their team’s turnaround. “We’ve come together a lot more,” said Maxey, who praised the team’s growth and improved understanding of each other’s strengths.
The 76ers’ journey from obscurity to contender is a testament to the team’s resilience and determination. With their sights set on the playoffs, they are now poised to make a serious push for a championship.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/43161460/76ers-win-celtics-shows-philly-potential-embiid-says