Sixers Fight but Go Down 3-0 to the Celtics

Photo Credit: Kim Klement from USA Today Sports

The Sixers actually fought tonight but it wasn’t enough. They fell to the Boston Celtics 102-94 and are now behind in the series three games to zero. Embiid led the Sixers with 30 points and 13 rebounds while Josh Richardson and Shake Milton added 17 points each. For the Celtics, Kemba Walker led with 24 points followed by Jaylen Brown who dropped 21 points of his own.

SIXERS SHOT TERRIBLY

This isn’t really a shock. The Sixers don’t have shooters that consistently shoot the rock at a high percentage. They went 9 for 39 from the three-point line, making only 28 shots on 95 attempts overall. They did get to the free-throw line 34 times making 29 of them. Without free throws, this is another blowout.

CELTICS IN TRANSITION

The Celtics were struggling themselves from the three point line (25.8%) but were able to capitalize in transition. Whether it be off a turnovers or long rebounds the Celtics got out a ran. They out scored the Sixers 22-8 which was ultimately the difference in the game.

2ND CHANCE POINTS

The Sixers fought tonight. The hustle and desire was there and they never quit. They outscored the Celtics 22-9 here which kept the Sixers in the game all night. The Celtics made multiple runs where the Sixers could have rolled over. They weren’t shooting well at all but second-chance points evened things out to make this a game.

UNDERSTANDING THE OFFENSE

At times tonight players cut or swung the ball around but there is absolutely no consistency. The team still has no identity and it is mind-boggling. Brett Brown has been here 7 years and still fitting round pegs in square holes. Or is it square pegs in round holes?

Gonna go out on a limb and say you have to get your big man the ball here. pic.twitter.com/eQkSEsRSfT
— Derek Bodner (@DerekBodnerNBA) August 22, 2020

EMBIID CRUCIAL TURNOVERS LATE

Joel Embiid played well tonight on both ends of the floor. However, the back to back turnovers he caused late in the 4th quarter cost the Sixers the game. These are situations he has to grow from as he learns the fundamentals of playing in the post. His teammates standing around didn’t help him any either.