Sixers show fight but fall short in Game 3 vs. Celtics

The Sixers fought to the final buzzer, but they ultimately came up short, falling to the Boston Celtics 108-100. Tyrese Maxey led the way for Philadelphia, scoring 31 points.

Here’s what stood out.

Keeping it physical

After being routed by over 30 points in Game 1, the Sixers have responded well in these last two games. Philadelphia climbed out to an early lead, continuing the physicality they showed in Game 2. From the opening tip through the final buzzer, the Sixers matched the Celtics’ physicality every step of the way.

Kelly Oubre provided an initial offensive spark as the Sixers kept the score within five by the end of the first quarter. The margin between the two teams would continue to grow in Philadelphia’s favor, losing the second quarter by two points before winning the third by the same margin.

The Boston Celtics, who are among the league’s most frequent three-point shooters, built their lead on that skill, knocking down 12-of-28 threes in the first half alone.

Philadelphia can’t compete consistently with Boston in a one-to-one shootout, but they did well to hold their own, staying within an arm's reach thanks to Tyrese Maxey, Paul George and a special mention for Andre Drummond, who went 2-of-2 from deep.

Securing an advantage in the turnover battle was also huge for the Sixers, as it often is for winning teams. Philadelphia did well to force a handful of turnovers, but was even better at capitalizing on Boston's unforced mistakes.

Unfortunately for the Sixers, their efforts fell short by the slimmest of margins as the Celtics unleashed three consecutive threes, including a final dagger by Jayson Tatum, to close out the game.

Other takeaways

• Nick Nurse has his team playing their best basketball of the entire season, and Joel Embiid isn’t even on the court. The switch that he’s flipped in this team during the playoffs has meant everything for the Sixers in a series that looked like it was quickly getting out of hand after Game 1.
• Adem Bona played all three parts in a one-man show of the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly in this game. His physicality was crucial, his shot-blocking paramount, but his unforced mental lapses continually plagued the Sixers. It was a step in the right direction, but Philly fans should rightfully continue to hope for the return of Embiid sooner rather than later.
• Quentin Grimes continues to play solid defense, but he’s been a virtual non-factor offensively. The argument for Justin Edwards in his place would have merit, but the Sixers simply need the ball-handling of Grimes, even if he’s not going to contribute as a scorer.

Up next for the Sixers

The Sixers stay in Philly as they prepare for Game 4, when they will once again host Boston. Tipoff is set for Sunday at 7 p.m. ET at the Xfinity Mobile Arena.

Unless otherwise stated, all stats included in this article are via NBA.com, PBPStats, Cleaning the Glass, Basketball Reference or Team Rankings. All salary information via Spotrac.