Boston Celtics vs Philadelphia 76ers Game 1 Prediction and Odds: 2023 NBA Playoffs

The Philadelphia 76ers had a much easier way to get to the second round in the Eastern Conference Playoffs, finishing the job against the Brooklyn Nets in 4 games. Unlike them, The Boston Celtics needed 6 games to get here but they are still the favorites going into Game 1 in TD Garden.

[nsn_tip count=2 tip1=”Philadelphia 76ers +10″ reason1=”” odds1=”10/11 (-110)” logo1=”https://punditfeed.com/app/uploads/nsntips/williamhill.png” bookmaker1=”williamhill” url1=”https://punditfeed.com/go-williamhill” tip2=”James Harden over 22.5 points” reason2=”” odds2=”4/5 (-125)” logo2=”https://punditfeed.com/app/uploads/nsntips/williamhill.png” bookmaker2=”williamhill” url2=”https://punditfeed.com/go-williamhill” target=”undefined” color_cta=”#000000″ text_cta=”white”]

These odds from William Hill were correct at the time of writing.

Boston Celtics vs Philadelphia 76ers Prediction — Photo : PA Images / Icon Sport

Boston Celtics vs Philadelphia 76ers – Game Predictions

For the first time since 2020, the Celtics and the Sixers will collide in the Playoffs. The Celtics swept the Sixers back then but now things look quite different. The key factor in this game would be Joel Embiid who is listed as doubtful for Game 1 at this point. With or without him, Doc Rivers will have to get the best of the Sixers against his former team who he led to the NBA championship back in 2008.

Prediction 1: Philadelphia 76ers to Cover the Spread (+10)

This is a pretty big spread for an opening game of a second round series but given the fact that Joel Embiid is doubtful, the Celtics are major favorites to win this one. However, the Sixers will go out there and fight and they still have great players to go against the Celtics even if their star center is out. James Harden can score against anybody, and Tobias Harris will use the chance with more possessions going his way. PJ Tucker and Montrezl Harrell are great defenders who will be physical against the Celtics. All that may not be enough for the Sixers to win tonight but they will cover the +10 points spread.

Prediction 2: James Harden over 22.5 points

With Embiid being out, James Harden will become the go-to guy for the Sixers and he doesn’t mind that at all. Harden averaged 21 points per game in the regular season and 17.3 so far in the Playoffs. The given margin is set a little higher tonight but with at least 5 to 7 shots more than usual, Harden will score over 22.5 points.

Celtics vs 76ers Preview – Can Harden take on the leading role in the series?

The Sixers had a great start of the Playoffs eliminating the Nets in four games. It seemed like it can finally be their year and they are confident going into the series against the Celtics. However, it is uncertain if Embiid will be able to play and the impact he would have on this series. With that in mind, Doc Rivers will have to turn to Harden. The former MVP will have to step up big time in this series if the Sixers want to stand any chance against the Celtics.

Boston Celtics News, Injuries, and Starting Lineups

The Boston Celtics are the main favorite to win the NBA championship at this point. They had some difficulties in the series against the Atlanta Hawks but had control of the series at any point. The Celtics would have the home court advantage in the Eastern Conference no matter who they face, so they are starting this series in TD Garden against a team they defeated three times in the season.

Boston Celtics Injury Report:

Danilo Gallinari is out for season.

Boston Celtics Starting Lineup:

Marcus Smart, Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum, Al Horford and Robert Williams III

Philadelphia 76ers News, Injuries, and Starting Lineups

Joel Embiid won the scoring title for the second year in a row and is the key player for the Sixers. Days after Philly finished the series against the Nets, the Sixers came up with the news that Embiid is injured and will probably miss Game 1 of the series against the Celtics. His absence would completely change the game plan for Doc Rivers but with James Harden in the lineup, they still have an elite scorer to keep them competitive in this game.

Philadelphia 76ers Injury Report:

Joel Embiid is listed as doubtful for Game 1.

Philadelphia 76ers Starting Lineup:

James Harden, Tyrese Maxey, PJ Tucker Tobias Harris and Montrezl Harrell