The Boston Celtics didn’t just open their playoff run with a win — they delivered a message.
Boston rolled past the Philadelphia 76ers 123-91 in Game 1 of their first-round series Sunday at TD Garden, taking control early and never giving the Sixers a chance to settle into the game.
With the win, the Celtics take a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series.
Celtics Take Control Early and Never Let Go
GettyPaul George of the Philadelphia 76ers defends Jaylen Brown of the Boston Celtics during the second quarter of Game 1 of their first-round NBA playoff series at TD Garden on April 19, 2026.
From the opening minutes, Boston dictated everything.
The Celtics jumped out to a 33-18 lead after the first quarter and followed it up with another 31-point second quarter to build a commanding 64-46 halftime advantage. Any hope of a Philadelphia comeback quickly disappeared as Boston maintained its intensity on both ends of the floor.
By the time the fourth quarter arrived, the outcome was no longer in doubt.
Boston’s balance and efficiency stood out throughout. The Celtics scored at all three levels, moved the ball consistently, and capitalized on Philadelphia mistakes to stretch the lead well beyond reach.
Tatum, Brown Lead Balanced Boston Attack
Jayson Tatum delivered a complete performance in the opener, finishing with 25 points, 11 rebounds, and 7 assists while controlling the tempo of the game.
Jaylen Brown added 26 points, including a strong stretch in the second half that helped Boston fully break the game open.
Together, the duo set the tone offensively, but Boston’s overall depth and execution proved just as important. The Celtics continued to generate quality looks and convert them, keeping constant pressure on a Philadelphia defense that struggled to respond.
76ers Struggle to Find Rhythm Without Embiid
GettyJustin Edwards of the Philadelphia 76ers grabs a rebound against Neemias Queta of the Boston Celtics during the second quarter of Game 1 at TD Garden on April 19, 2026.
Philadelphia never found consistency offensively, and the absence of Joel Embiid was impossible to ignore.
Playing without their All-Star center following his recent appendectomy, the Sixers lacked a reliable focal point on offense and struggled to create efficient scoring opportunities.
Tyrese Maxey led Philadelphia with 21 points and 8 assists, while Paul George added 17 points. Outside of that, production was limited, and the Sixers were unable to keep pace after falling behind early.
Philadelphia managed just 18 points in the first quarter and spent the rest of the night trying to close a gap that only continued to grow.
Game Gets Away as Boston Extends Lead
Every time the Sixers showed signs of life, the Celtics responded.
Boston consistently turned defensive stops into transition opportunities and knocked down timely shots to halt any momentum Philadelphia tried to build. The gap widened steadily, and the Celtics’ control of the game never wavered.
By the fourth quarter, the margin had ballooned into a decisive blowout.
What It Means Heading Into Game 2
Game 1 offered a clear early look at the challenge ahead for Philadelphia.
Without Embiid, the Sixers will need a significantly sharper offensive performance and more consistent contributions across the roster to stay competitive in this series.
Game 2 is set for Tuesday night in Boston, where the Celtics will look to build on their early dominance before the series shifts to Philadelphia.
For now, Boston holds the edge — and all the momentum.
Celtics Blow Out 76ers in Game 1 as Boston Sends Loud Playoff Message