Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers are facing off in the Eastern Conference playoffs. As serious title challengers, both teams are interdependent from one another. However, in their upcoming matchup at the TD Garden, only one club can grab the lead. Both sides have the talent to grab the lead, so it should be a spectacle.
For the 76ers, who are concerned about Joel Embiid‘s ailment, it will be a major worry. The 2022–23 MVP is now dealing with a knee issue, which might impede their progress. It is a serious issue considering how important Embiid and Harden‘s abilities have been to their success. The Sixers will be crossing their fingers in light of Embiid’s injury issue because the Celtics have enough firepower on both ends of the game.
Joel Embiid is questionable for the Philadelphia 76ers vs Boston Celtics game
Up until today, the MVP has missed two playoff games for the Sixers because of a serious knee injury. Embiid, however, has averaging 23.2 points per game for the Sixers and is a crucial part of the offense. Last time out, Embiid scored 34 points in a close victory over the Celtics. However, he is labeled as questionable for tonight’s game. But since it’s a game-time decision, we can anticipate that he gets into the starting lineup.
NBA TUESDAY SLATE UPDATE: Joel Embiid is questionable and headlines the early injury report for tomorrow s #NBA slate on #DraftKings.
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DK Nation (@dklive) May 9, 2023
In Game 5, the Boston Celtics will host, giving them a minor advantage against the Sixers. Although they faced injury issues throughout the regular season, they will be prepared for the playoffs. Danilo Gallinari is the sole player on their injury list, and he will not participate in Game 5. Let’s examine the full injury report and anticipated rosters for both clubs.
Philadelphia 76ers injury report
- Joel Embiid (Questionable)
Philadelphia 76ers expected roster
- Tobias Harris
- P.J. Tucker
- James Harden
- Tyrese Maxey
- Joel Embiid (Questionable)
Boston Celtics injury report
- Danilo Gallinari (Out)
Boston Celtics expected roster
- Jaylen Brown
- Jayson Tatum
- Al Horford
- Marcus Smart
- Derrick White
The Boston Celtics will be favored to take the lead in the series in Game 5
Given that neither club dominated at home, one thing is for certain—either team has a chance to influence a victory. The two teams have played close games, with the Celtics winning Game 2 at home by a huge margin over the Sixers. Consequently, there is a chance that the Celtics could win since they are playing on their home court.For the Celtics, Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown have excelled, scoring 26.0 and 25.4 points per contest, respectively.
In the previous game between the two, it was a marginal victory for the Sixers at home 116-115. Harden forced OT only for the Sixers to take the win in Game 4. A slight slip-up from the Sixers in the middle of the 4th quarter gave the Celtics a chance to tie the game. However, we expect the Celtics to win on their home turf and make the most of it.