The Sixers were one game away from making their Eastern Conference Finals since 2001. They had edged the Celtics in Game 5 to take a 3-2 series lead after previously trailing Boston 2-1. All they needed was one more win. Going into a home-court Game 6, the Sixers were the slight favorites to win. However, they would need big performances from all their major contributors. MVP Joel Embiid couldn't be expected to carry the load.
On the other hand, the 57-win Celtics were looking to stay alive. They had squandered a series lead through some bad shooting nights. They were staring down the barrel of elimination. Despite the powerhouse tandem of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, the Celtics were struggling to overcome the MVP-led Sixers.
Celtics Clinch Low-Scoring Game 6
Both teams forgot how to play basketball at various points during this ugly Game 6. The Celtics started hot, jumping out to a 15-3 lead in the first. However, the Sixers finally found the right gear and only trailed by seven at the end of the quarter. That lead remained for Boston at the half as both teams scored 21 in the second. A big third quarter for the Sixers saw them lead by two going into the final frame but that's when they once again forgot how to play basketball. Putting up just 13 in the fourth, the Celtics were able to take back the lead to squeak out a 95-86 win.
Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey jointly led all scorers with 26 points. However, P.J. Tucker and Tobias Harris combined for just 10 points, which cost the Sixers greatly. Furthermore, Philly's bench scored just 11 points. As for the Celtics, they were led by Marcus Smart's 22. However, they also had two other scorers put up at least 17 each. Despite scoring just two points, Al Horford shook off his ice-cold Game 5 to put up 11 rebounds. The scrappy team effort gives the Celtics the chance to clinch on their home court. They can find the win, it will be the third time in the last five seasons that they have made it to the Conference Finals.
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