UPDATE: In a thrilling matchup on October 27, 2023, the Boston Celtics edged out the Philadelphia 76ers 109-108, marking their third consecutive win. Jaylen Brown led the charge with an impressive 32 points, ensuring the Celtics never trailed throughout the game.
The intensity was palpable as the Celtics, recovering from a rocky start to the season, leveled their record at .500 after three straight victories. Anfernee Simons contributed 19 points, while both Payton Pritchard and Derrick White added 15 points each. This win also avenged their earlier 117-116 defeat to the 76ers, which took place on October 22.
The 76ers, who entered the game as one of only four undefeated teams in the league, were led by Tyrese Maxey with 26 points. The contest was the first for both teams as part of the highly anticipated NBA Cup.
With only 20.8 seconds left on the clock, Maxey’s drive narrowed the gap to 109-108. However, the Celtics’ defense held firm as Maxey missed a crucial underhand scoop shot with just 4 seconds remaining. In a nail-biting finish, Boston’s Josh Minott missed two free throws shortly thereafter, giving the 76ers one last chance. Unfortunately for Philadelphia fans, Joel Embiid‘s last-second 3-pointer fell short.
Boston’s commanding performance in the first half saw them lead by as many as 20 points. Although the 76ers managed to tie the game at 72-all with 6.5 minutes left in the third quarter, they could never regain the lead. Embiid, on a 20-minute restriction due to offseason knee surgery, recorded 20 points in just over 25 minutes of play.
The Celtics will host the Miami Heat on Saturday night, while the 76ers travel to face the Brooklyn Nets on Sunday night. Fans are eager to see if Philadelphia can bounce back and maintain their competitive edge in the league.
This thrilling encounter not only highlights the resilience of the Celtics but also raises questions about the 76ers’ ability to rebound after a close loss. As both teams continue their journey in the NBA Cup, all eyes will be on their next performances.
