Celtics vs 76ers

Boston’s depth and defense should be too much for Philly

Grade A: Celtics Moneyline (-600)

The Celtics, one of the Eastern Conference’s top contenders, look to extend their strong run against a struggling 76ers squad that has lost four of its last five. Philadelphia’s biggest concern is Joel Embiid’s ongoing knee issues, which have limited his availability and left the Sixers struggling on both ends of the floor. Without their superstar big man at full strength, Philly will have a tough time slowing down Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, who have torched the Sixers in past matchups. Boston’s defense, anchored by Jrue Holiday and Derrick White, should also disrupt Philly’s backcourt, making it even harder for the home team to keep pace. With playoff seeding becoming more critical for the C’s and the Sixers looking more like a lottery team, this one leans heavily in Boston’s favor.

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Boston’s firepower should be too much for short-handed Philly

Grade A-: Celtics -11.5 (-110)

The Celtics, firmly in the hunt for the East’s top seed, enter this matchup on a strong run, while the Sixers have struggled, losing six of their last ten. Philadelphia’s biggest concern is the health of Joel Embiid, who remains limited with a knee issue, significantly weakening their interior presence. Without him at full strength, Boston’s frontcourt, led by Jayson Tatum and Kristaps Porziņģis, should dominate inside. On the perimeter, Jrue Holiday and Derrick White have the defensive ability to stifle Tyrese Maxey, making scoring difficult for the home team. With Boston needing wins to solidify its playoff position and the Sixers appearing outmatched on both ends, expect the Celtics to cover the spread with a convincing road victory.

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