After one game between the Philadelphia 76ers and the Boston Celtics, a former member of the seventh seed has seen enough to make a strong prediction out of the gate.
Former 76ers sharpshooter Danny Green believes that this first-round battle is nothing but a good warm-up for Jayson Tatum and the second-seeded Celtics.
On a recent episode of ‘No Fouls Given,’ Green dished his thoughts after seeing Game 1.
What Did Danny Green Have To Say?
“Tatum looked great. I think the 20 games, or whatever games he played before, definitely helped him get comfortable,” Green said.
“You could tell he was slowing the game down, taking his time getting to his spots, not rushing it, taking his mid-range, shooting over the top, getting the mismatch he wanted. He wasn’t trying to do too much where like, He’ll take a little Eurostep finish at the rim. If he gets a dunk, he’ll dnk it, but it’s like a good warmup for him for the next round.”
Tatum played in just 32 minutes on Sunday afternoon.
The star forward shot 9-17 from the field, and went 6-6 from the free-throw line. He produced 25 points, 11 rebounds, seven assists, and two steals.
When Green was questioned about already discussing round two for Boston, he made it clear that the Sixers don’t have any shot to win.
“They’re gonna get this first round. No Joel in Philly.”
The Sixers entered the Game 1 matchup without Joel Embiid. The star center was diagnosed with appendicitis during the final week of the regular season. As expected, his lack of presence caused the 76ers to take a major hit.
What’s Next For The 76ers?
Game is 2 in Boston is set for Tuesday, April 21.
Following a blowout 123-91 loss against Boston, the Sixers didn’t pose a threat at all to open up the series.
Tuesday’s game will give them a chance to bounce back. If they begin the series in an 0-2 hole, it will simply continue to fuel opinions similar to Green’s.