Despite Joel Embiid, Sixers lose in Game 2 to Celtics

Just recovered from a right knee injury, Joel Embiid walked the Boston floor well with Philadelphia last night in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Semi-Finals. But the return of the Cameroonian pivot, freshly voted MVP of the regular season NBA, did not allow the Sixers to drive the point home in the series (1-1).

Winner of the opening match (119-117), the Pennsylvania franchise this time suffered a stinging setback which saw them lose with a 34-point difference (121-87). The Celtics dominated from start to finish, winning every quarter, but the third will have consecrated their domination, with a 35-16 inflicted on the Sixers.

The collective of Boston started, carried by Jaylen Brown (25 points, 4 ***ists and 3 rebounds) and Malcolm Brogdon, who came off the bench to add 23 points and 6 rebounds. Enough to confirm that he was not appointed for nothing best sixth man of the season.

Harden limited to 12 points

Opposite, the individuals were less flamboyant. Embiid played 26 minutes, the time to compile 15 points and 3 rebounds. If his return from injury can explain an average performance in terms of his status (he averaged 33 points in the regular season), James Harden was in full possession of his means after his 45 points in Game 1. But the point guard was this time limited to 12 points (with 10 rebounds and 4 ***ists) by the Boston defense.

So here are the two teams tied before the next two meetings in Philadelphia. Game 3 will take place on the night of Friday to Saturday.

20%

The Sixers’ low three-point success rate against Boston. James Harden notably presents a 0% with six failures out of six attempts. The Celtics converted 39%.