Celtics, 76ers will add to their long playoff history with a Game 7 matchup in Boston

The Boston Celtics find themselves in a precarious position as they head into Game 7 against the Philadelphia 76ers. What was once a promising playoff run has turned into a battle for survival after back-to-back losses in Games 5 and 6.

The Celtics had looked like a strong contender in the Eastern Conference after a dominant performance in Game 4, but the momentum has shifted in favor of the 76ers. A loss in Game 7 would mark the earliest exit from the playoffs for the Celtics since the 2020-21 season.

Adding to the Celtics’ woes is the uncertainty surrounding star player Jayson Tatum, who suffered a left calf injury in Game 6. Tatum, who is still recovering from a torn right Achilles tendon injury, left the game for treatment but downplayed the severity of the injury. Coach Joe Mazzulla has confirmed that Tatum will play in Game 7 despite the injury scare.

The history of winner-takes-all games for Philadelphia teams doesn’t bode well for the 76ers, who have lost several Game 7s in recent years. However, they have a chance to turn the tide against the Celtics, who have historically dominated the series between the two teams.

Game 7 is set to be a high-stakes showdown, with the Celtics favored by 7.5 points. Both teams will need to bring their A-game, with the Celtics looking to improve their shooting performance after struggling in the previous games. The 76ers, on the other hand, will be aiming to make history by overcoming a 3-1 deficit and securing a spot in the next round of the playoffs.

In a season filled with unexpected twists and turns, Game 7 between the Celtics and the 76ers promises to be a thrilling finale to what has been a closely contested series. Fans can catch all the action live on NBC/Peacock at 7:30 p.m. EDT.

Stay tuned for what is sure to be a nail-biting conclusion to this intense playoff matchup.

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AP Sports Writer Dan Gelston contributed.

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