After yet another impressive dub in Game 6 to tie the series up 3-3, the Philadelphia 76ers have now successfully forced a rubber match in Game 7, which could very well be a bloodbath. Unfortunately, the Celtics seem to have stumbled upon a huge roadblock, as All-Star forward Jayson Tatum just suffered a calf injury that could force his ball club to sit him out.
Tatum exited Game 6 during the third quarter after experiencing some discomfort in his left calf. He did not return in the game, finishing his night with 29 minutes played. Ahead of Game 7, his status could be in jeopardy despite Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla not looking too concerned with respect to his outlook for the do-or-die match.
The 76ers could very well be favored to win the series at this juncture. While they have a track record of falling flat in sudden death matches, what is different this time around is that they have a winning momentum going for them. Tatum possibly not being in optimal condition will likewise tilt the scales in favor of Philly in Game 7.
76ers catch a huge break ahead of do-or-die Game 7 against the Celtics
Tatum managed to return successfully from a brutal Achilles tear in last year's playoffs. While Boston has not limited his workload nor minutes since his comeback, they would be wise to be extra cautious about trotting him out in Game 7. An abundance of caution is required for calf injuries nowadays, and the Celtics brain trust know that perfectly well.
But even if he ends up being in uniform, the 76ers should be in prime position to take advantage. The Celtics have had a difficult time generating their usual advantages on the floor over the last couple of games thanks to Philly's suffocating defense, and Tatum being hobbled takes away one of their very few initiators on the offensive end.
On defense, the 76ers would also be incentivized to put Tatum in every action to try and tire him out easily. With a slew of relentless drivers, Nick Nurse could put an emphasis on attacking him and having him chase around players to force the Celtics into keeping him as a stationary, non-proactive piece on the hardwood.
Nothing is guaranteed, and the Celtics are used to playing without Tatum this season, but the 76ers have the perfect opportunity to advance to the Conference Semifinals. Nevertheless, the ball is in their hands, and if they fail to sustain what got them back in the series, their efforts will go to waste regardless if the Celtics' main anchor suits up or not.
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