The Boston Celtics sent a powerful message in the opening game of the 2026 NBA Playoffs, crushing the Philadelphia 76ers 123-91 on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at TD Garden. This dominant performance gives Boston a commanding 1-0 lead in their Eastern Conference First Round series.
Game Summary: Celtics Route 76ers in Historic Blowout
The Celtics jumped out early and never looked back, leading by double digits for most of the game. The final margin of victory — 32 points — marks the largest playoff-opening win in Celtics franchise history.
Final Score: Celtics 123 — 76ers 91
Key Quarter Scores:
- Q1: Celtics 33, 76ers 18
- Q2: Celtics 31, 76ers 28
- Q3: Celtics 31, 76ers 25
- Q4: Celtics 28, 76ers 20
Boston shot efficiently and dominated on both ends of the floor, while Philadelphia struggled without their star center.
Standout Performances
- Jayson Tatum: 25 points, 11 rebounds, 7 assists — strong return to playoff action after injury concerns.
- Jaylen Brown: 26 points on 11-21 shooting, adding energy and scoring throughout.
- Tyrese Maxey (76ers): Led Philadelphia with 21 points and 8 assists.
- Paul George (76ers): 17 points; moved up in all-time playoff 3-pointers made.
The Celtics’ duo of Tatum and Brown combined for over 50 points and showed excellent chemistry. Boston’s bench and defense also shone, holding the 76ers under 100 points.
Why the 76ers Struggled
Philadelphia played without Joel Embiid, who is recovering from an appendectomy on April 9. His absence was felt heavily in the paint and on the boards. The 76ers, seeded 7th, faced an uphill battle against the well-rested and motivated No. 2 seed Celtics.
2026 NBA Playoffs Context & Series Outlook
This matchup renews a classic Eastern Conference rivalry. The Celtics, bolstered by Tatum’s return, entered as heavy favorites. ESPN experts unanimously picked Boston to advance, with many predicting a series win in 5 or 6 games.
ASN | Article
Upcoming Schedule:
- Game 2: Tuesday, April 21, 2026 – 7:00 PM ET (Peacock / NBC Sports)
- Games 3 & 4 will be in Philadelphia.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
Celtics fans are buzzing after this statement win. Boston looks like a serious championship contender again, with strong defense, balanced scoring, and home-court advantage.
76ers need to find answers quickly — especially on offense and rebounding — if they hope to extend the series. Adjustments without Embiid will be critical.
This blowout is dominating searches and conversations across the USA and Canada today, right alongside other playoff action like Suns vs Thunder.
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