Boston Celtics
2017-18 record: 55-27
2017-18 season series: 3-1, Celtics
2018-19 advantage: Celtics
After rolling through the Sixers in five games during the playoffs, it’s clear that the Celtics have a leg up heading into the 2018-19 season. Kyrie Irving and Gordon Hayward are both healthy, while Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum are trending upward.
With all that said, Al Horford might still be the Sixers’ kryptonite — a versatile big capable of defending all five positions and stretching the floor on the other end. He puts Embiid in uncomfortable positions and is a legitimate All-Defense candidate.
Brad Stevens and the Celtics’ bench cement their status as the superior team. The Sixers need a more dynamic halfcourt offense — something Markelle Fultz can provide — but even then, it’s difficult to fathom the Celtics going down if they’re operating at 100 percent.
Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons are elite, generational talents. Their presence alone will put the Sixers in the NBA Finals discussion. Just don’t expect the Celtics to be anything other than heavy favorites all season long.