Boston Celtics NBA Playoffs Game Tonight: Celtics vs 76ers Injury Report, Starting Lineup, Predictions, TV Channel for May 5
The Boston Celtics take on the 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference semifinals’ No. 2-No. 3 matchup, looking to reclaim home-court advantage following a series-opening dud that was followed by a signature Game 2 victory.
What made the May 3 121-87 destruction of the 76ers at the TD Garden such a critical showing was the return of Joel Embiid. The 2022-23 NBA MVP was held to 15 points and three rebounds — albeit with an impressive five blocks as well — in 27 minutes of floortime. Given the high expectations the Celtics brought into the postseason, the win was needed following James Harden’s 45 points and critical late-game mistakes costing Boston Game 1.
Sportsbooks have tabbed this game a near pick ’em, though one side has the slightest of advantages in Las Vegas’ eyes to take care of business in Philadelphia on Friday night.
Friday, May 5. 54-28. 93. Celtics -2. 57-25. 18. ESPN. 7:30 PM ET
Philadelphia 76ers: 3rd (ORtg), 8th (DRtg), 27th (Pace), 3rd (NRtg)
Boston Celtics: 2nd (ORtg), 2nd (DRtg), 20th (Pace), 1st (NRtg)
Boston Celtics Projected Starting Lineup
PG –Marcus Smart, SG – Derrick White, SF – Jaylen Brown, PF – Jayson Tatum, C – Al Horford
Philadelphia 76ers Projected Starting Lineup
PG – James Harden, SG – Tyrese Maxey, SF – Tobias Harris, PF – P.J. Tucker, C – Joel Embiid
Boston Celtics vs Philadelphia 76ers Injury Report
Celtics PF Danilo Gallinari (ACL) – Out
76ers C Joel Embiid (Grade 1 LCL sprain) – Questionable
Boston Celtics vs Philadelphia 76ers Prediction
While Embiid has a questionable designation, it’s unlikely the MVP won’t walk onto the Wells Fargo Center floor and not give his team the best chance to finally conquer their playoff demons FKA the Celtics. Embiid is 1-9 against Boston in his playoff career.
And that record won’t improve.
With Embiid being less than 100% and already struggling against the Celtics historically, Boston should pick the bones of a 76ers squad that may be better matched up against the Cs with Harden leading the charge.
Celtics 101 76ers 93