Trust Our Process, Joel
There’s been animosity building through the summer between the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers.
It was evident on during NBA Opening Night on Tuesday that the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers tension was the beginning of things to come.
The Boston Celtics got the better of the jawing as they picked up where they left off vs the 76ers last season with a convincing 105-87 victory at the TD Garden Arena.
Jayson Tatum starred for Boston with a team-high 23 points (9-for-17 FG) as he was one of the players exchanging words with the always expressive Joel Embiid.
The Celtics really let Embiid have it on the night, particularly in the fourth quarter as Jaylen Brown stared down Joel Embiid after finishing over Embiid at the rim with a dunk attempt that was partially blocked but still went for a score.
Brown would dish out what the fourth-year big man so often has over his first few seasons. Tatum would later hit a jump shot over Embiid then appearing to ask him ‘what happened?’ following the shot.
Jayson Tatum told reporters before the season opener that during workouts with Joel Embiid this offseason he would engage in trash talk with the All-Star big man, reminding Embiid of the Celtics cruising past his 76ers in five games in last season’s NBA playoffs.
On the floor tonight, Philadelphia had an opportunity to send a message that this year would be different, but they failed to do so as Boston’s defense shutdown Philadelphia’s offense as they held them to 39% shooting from the field.
The 18-point margin of victory should be a concern for Brett Brown and his Philadelphia 76ers. That margin of victory comes despite Kyrie Irving and a returning Gordon Hayward combining to go 6-for-26 from the floor, an aberration more than Philadelphia’s ability to defend them.
Even with Philadelphia’s two stars, Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons, having respectable nights, it wasn’t enough to make up for the one-sided results on the court.
The 76ers are hopeful that Markelle Fultz, who entered training camp with somewhat of a chip on his shoulder after a bumpy rookie season, can help be that difference for Philadelphia.
The 2017 first overall pick got the start on Tuesday night and struggled as he finished with 5 points (2-for-7 FG) with 3 rebounds, 2 assists and 3 turnovers in 24 minutes of action.
With LeBron James’ departure from the Eastern Conference this summer, these two teams feel like they will be the representative in the NBA Finals this season.
If tonight proved anything, it’s that Brad Stevens’ Boston Celtics still holds a decisive edge over their Eastern Conference rivals Philadelphia.
Philadelphia sure won’t forget what they allowed to transpire at times during this game next time these two teams meet.
What are your thoughts on the Celtics victory over the 76ers on Opening Night? Leave your comments below!