Adam Williams presents his prediction for the NBA match.
Some teams have yet to play even ten regular-season games, yet the Philadelphia 76ers and the Boston Celtics are already preparing for their third head-to-head meeting of the season. The series is currently level at 1-1, with both sides surprisingly claiming away victories.
Philadelphia 76ers
After a bright start, the 76ers have slowed down, recording just two wins in their last five outings. The main drop-off has come from V. J. Edgecombe, who has averaged only 11.4 points per game over that stretch. Expectations for the rookie may have been excessive after his explosive early performances, when he was scoring close to thirty points per game. Those missing points are exactly what the Philadelphia 76ers lack to secure wins.
Boston Celtics
The Boston Celtics’ attack has inevitably dipped due to significant roster losses in the off-season, yet Joe Mazzulla’s staff deserve credit for maintaining elite defensive standards. The Celtics concede an average of just 110.4 points, ranking second-best in the league. Jaylen Brown has also thrived with more freedom on the ball, posting a career-high 28 points per game.
Philadelphia 76ers vs Boston Celtics Prediction
The sides last met less than two weeks ago, when the Boston Celtics edged it (109:108). Since then, the Philadelphia 76ers have shown no signs of improvement, making the visitors clear favourites for this encounter.