Sixers matchups to watch: Celtics, Jan. 20
The Sixers still haven’t exorcised their Boston demons, and the Celtics are yet another example of a contender Philadelphia will likely have to beat in order to win a championship. The Celtics could be shorthanded when this game rolls around — Kemba Walker is rehabbing a knee injury — but it’s still a test.
Boston torched Philadelphia in the playoffs. Jayson Tatum quickly approaching top-10 status, Jaylen Brown is on the precipice of All-Star consideration, and Marcus Smart will continue to defend the crap out of whoever he’s assigned to. Even with Walker hurt and Gordon Hayward in Charlotte, the Celtics can any lapse in the Sixers’ defensive coverage.
That said, the Celtics are shallow and will struggle to overcome significant injuries. Jeff Teague is expected to start in Walker’s place — he’s not more than a solid backup at this stage in his career. Boston added Tristan Thompson, but he’s far from the answer to Joel Embiid many Celtic fans were craving. This is one of the most favorable Embiid matchups in the East.
Like Miami, this is scheduled as a double-header, so the Sixers will host Boston twice in three nights. There’s always something extra when Boston and Philly collide, and this could finally be the season in which Philadelphia surpasses Boston. The cherry on top is Doc Rivers, who coached the Celtics to a championship in 2008.