When it came to Game 1 between the Philadelphia 76ers and the Boston Celtics, Jayson Tatum and his team came out firing from the jump.
The Celtics punched hard right away, and the Sixers truly didn’t stand a chance.
The Celtics defeated the Sixers 123-91. Facing the 76ers for the first time this season, Tatum produced 25 points, 11 rebounds, seven assists, and two steals.
With a comfortable victory to secure a 1-0 lead, Tatum maintained a calm composure. During his postgame press conference, the star forward made it clear that the Celtics are expecting more from the 76ers in Game 2.
Jayson Tatum’s 76ers Statement
GettyBOSTON, MA – APRIL 19: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics smiles during the second half of their win over the Philadelphia 76ers in Game One of the Eastern Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at TD Garden on April 19, 2026 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo By Winslow Townson/Getty Images)
“Philly has had guys miss some time that they’re not really like, a traditional seven seed,” Tatum told reporters. “They’re a really, really, talented team. They’ve got a great coaching staff. Nick Nurse is a championship coach. I played against him in the bubble when he was with Toronto.”
Heading into Game 1, the Sixers ruled out their star center, Joel Embiid. The former MVP underwent surgery recently and hasn’t been cleared for basketball activity.
Going into Game 2, the Sixers are in the same position. While Embiid made some progress in his recovery this week, he’s still out on Tuesday. The Sixers will once again miss their seven-time All-Star big man.
“Just understanding that they’re a really complete team,” Tatum added. “Obviously, missing Joel, but they got some really talented guys that play hard. You have to show them that respect and knowing that they’re going to play better the next game. The next game is going to be tougher. They’re going to make adjustments and we’re just preparing for that.”
The 76ers Have A Lot To Prove
GettyPHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – APRIL 15: Paul George #8 talks to Tyrese Maxey #0 of the Philadelphia 76ers during the first half of an NBA play-in tournament game against the Orlando Magic at Xfinity Mobile Arena on April 15, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
Even without Embiid on the court, the 76ers have to do a better job. They still have two max-contracted veterans healthy and available in Tyrese Maxey and Paul George.
The President of Basketball Operations, Daryl Morey, didn’t acquire any notable acquisitions at the trade deadline, showing faith in the current group of veterans.
Going down 0-2 as the seventh seed would certainly cause the Sixers’ odds of winning the series to take a major hit. Losing in round one after failing to make the playoffs in 2025 would create a ton of questions heading into the offseason.
The Celtics clearly aren’t treating the Sixers like a lesser team. Philly is getting their best shot, and the 76ers need to hit back harder in Game 2 on Tuesday night.