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Celtics Bury Sixers With Record 3s to Take 3-1 Lead as Embiid Returns

Philadelphia heads to Boston for Game 5 facing the long odds of a 3-1 deficit.

Overview

  • Joel Embiid, cleared less than an hour before tip after an April 9 appendectomy, returned Sunday in Game 4, but Boston rolled 128-96 to seize a 3-1 series lead.
  • Boston set a franchise playoff mark by making 24 three-pointers, powered by Payton Pritchard’s 32 points and Jayson Tatum’s 30 points with 11 assists.
  • Embiid logged 34 minutes for 26 points and 10 rebounds, while Tyrese Maxey took only three first-half shots as Philadelphia’s offense struggled to find rhythm.
  • The 76ers listed Embiid doubtful in the morning, upgraded him to questionable after on-court work, then announced him available just before tipoff.
  • Game 5 is Tuesday at TD Garden, where the 76ers must win to extend the series against a Celtics team they have not beaten in a postseason matchup since 1982 and where 3-1 comebacks are uncommon.