Sixers Dominate Boston in Pivotal Game 5

The Philadelphia 76ers take a commanding 3-2 lead in their series versus the Boston Celtics in Boston on Tuesday Night.

This Philly squad was led by Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, as they both scored over 30 points and 3 assists with 7 rebounds. Philadelphia now controls their own destiny for the rest of the series.

What led Philadelphia to this pivotal win in Boston?

Tyrese Maxey’s Series Finally Beginning

Tyrese Maxey had been rather quiet for most of the series up until Game 5. In this game, Tyrese Maxey scored an impressive 30 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 assists. Maxey had not scored in the 30’s in the playoffs since Game 2 of Round 1 in Philly where the Sixers won 96-84 against the Brooklyn Nets. Since the Philly guard decided to step up his game, the 76ers were able to outscore Boston by 12 points in this game. In fact, Maxey scored his best plus-minus stat in the series, putting up a +15. If Tyrese Maxey can stay hot, the Sixers definitely could end the series in Philadelphia in Game 6.

Joel Embiid Making Up for Harden’s Mishaps

James Harden had a somewhat disappointing game, scoring only 17 points, but he did have 10 assists and 8 rebounds. The lack of scoring from Harden was made up by Joel Embiid. Embiid put up 33 points and hit all of his free throws. It is clear that despite playing through a knee injury, Embiid has no issues in playing in tough situations. The NBA MVP hit 10 of his 23 shots and made 3 triples. Even if Harden is cold right now, having Embiid staying hot will keep the Sixers away from elimination.

Is this it?

Game 6 will be played on Thursday Night in the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, where the 76ers look to move on to the Eastern Conference Finals. TV coverage will be on ESPN and radio coverage will be on 97.5 The Fanatic.