76ers vs Celtics Prediction Game 6 NBA Playoffs 5/11
- A Plus Picks
- May 10, 2023, 8:17:35 PM
© Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
Preview
The Boston Celtics will look to force a Game 7 in the Eastern Conference Semifinals when they visit the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 6 on May 11th. The Celtics have been fighting to keep their postseason run alive, and they will face a tough challenge against the 76ers, who currently lead the series 3-2. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive preview of the game, including an analysis of both teams' offense, defense, and injuries, along with our NBA experts' picks.
Boston Celtics Offense and Defense
The Celtics' offense has been led by Jayson Tatum, who has been scoring at a high rate throughout the playoffs. Tatum is averaging 30.1 points per game (PPG) in the postseason, shooting 46.6% from the field and 85.4% from the free-throw line. In addition to Tatum, the Celtics will need strong performances from their role players, including Marcus Smart, Evan Fournier, and Robert Williams III, to overcome the 76ers.
Defensively, the Celtics have been solid, allowing just 102.0 PPG in the playoffs. However, they struggled in Game 5, allowing the 76ers to score 115 points, including 22 points from Joel Embiid, who was a game-time decision due to an injury. The Celtics will need to tighten up their defense in Game 6 and find a way to slow down Embiid, who is averaging 33.1 PPG and 10.2 rebounds per game in the playoffs.
Philadelphia 76ers Offense and Defense
The 76ers' offense is led by Joel Embiid, who has been playing at an MVP level throughout the playoffs. Embiid is averaging 33.1 PPG and 10.2 RPG in the postseason, shooting 54.8% from the field and 85.7% from the free-throw line. In addition to Embiid, the 76ers will look to get strong performances from their other starters, including Ben Simmons, Tobias Harris, Seth Curry, and Danny Green.
Defensively, the 76ers have been dominant, allowing just 96.6 PPG in the playoffs. They have the length and athleticism to disrupt the Celtics' offense and make it difficult for them to get into their sets. The 76ers will need another strong defensive performance in Game 6 to close out the series and advance to the Eastern Conference Finals.
Injuries
The Celtics will be without forward Danilo Gallinari, who is dealing with a minor injury. On the other hand, the 76ers are expected to have Joel Embiid back in the lineup after he was a game-time decision in Game 5.
Prediction
Our NBA experts predict that the Boston Celtics will win Game 6 and cover the -2 point spread. The Celtics have shown that they can compete with the 76ers, and they have the talent to keep the game close. Look for Jayson Tatum to have a big game and lead the Celtics to victory.
In conclusion, Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals between the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers promises to be an exciting matchup. Both teams have talented rosters and are capable of winning the game.
Pick: Celtics -2
