The 76ers vs Celtics is getting hot. Game 1 went to Boston, but Game 2 saw Philadelphia win on the road in a spectacular fashion, tying the series at 1-1. It is now on to Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia where a decisive Game 3 will take place on Friday, April 24, 2026, and tip-off at 7:00 PM ET on Amazon Prime Video. Joel Embiid remains out and Boston is seeking to recover, so the game will be highly dramatic on both sides of the court.
Game 2 Recap – How Philadelphia Leveled the 76ers vs Celtics Series
The Game 2 rematch of the 76ers vs Celtics in Boston was a masterpiece in 3 point shots and rookie genius. Philadelphia made a shocking 49 percent (19-of-39) of its long-range attempts, and limited the Celtics to 26 percent (13-of-50) of theirs. First-year pro, VJ Edgecombe, who came into the world in the 1996 playoffs with just one prior playoff appearance, had 30 points and 10 rebounds, and Tyrese Maxey had 29 points and 9 assists, leading Philly to a convincing 111-97 win in his second career playoff game.
For Boston, Jaylen Brown led all scorers with 36 points, and Jayson Tatum recorded a double-double with 19 points and 14 rebounds. However, the Celtics’ role players were nowhere to be found. Boston’s starters shot just 28.9% from three (11-of-38), and four of them combined for a total of only four free throw attempts. If Boston wants to reclaim control, its supporting cast must show up in a major way.
Key Matchups to Watch in 76ers vs Celtics Game 3
In the 76ers vs Celtics Game 3, all eyes will be on whether VJ Edgecombe can sustain his remarkable breakout performance on home floor. His chemistry with Tyrese Maxey gives Philadelphia a dynamic backcourt that Boston has clearly struggled to contain. Derrick White must deliver a strong bounce-back game as Boston’s primary defensive anchor against Maxey.
On the other end, the Celtics must tighten their defensive rotations dramatically. Philadelphia’s three-point barrage in Game 2 exposed serious close-out breakdowns that Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla will certainly address. Sam Hauser and Neemias Queta must also step up their contributions, as Boston cannot afford another disappearing act from its role players on the road.
Injury Report and Lineup Outlook
The biggest storyline heading into 76ers vs Celtics Game 3 remains Joel Embiid’s availability. The All-Star center is officially listed as OUT after undergoing an emergency appendectomy less than two weeks ago. While Embiid has taken part in limited portions of practice and carries a “doubtful” tag, Philadelphia is not expected to rush him back at this stage of recovery. Boston enters Game 3 with no injury concerns and a fully healthy roster.
Odds, Trends, and Best Bets
Boston enters as a heavy favorite in the 76ers vs Celtics Game 3 matchup. The Celtics sit at -305 on the moneyline and -7.5 on the spread, while Philadelphia checks in as a +245 home underdog. The game total is set at 215.5 points. Boston carries the NBA’s best road record at 26-15 and an impressive 50-34 ATS mark overall, while also going 3-1 following a loss in last year’s playoffs. Betting models are currently leaning toward Boston covering and the total going over 215.5.
FAQs
Q: When and where is 76ers vs Celtics Game 3?
A: Game 3 tips off on Friday, April 24, 2026 at 7:00 PM ET at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia, PA. It airs live on Amazon Prime Video.
Q: Is Joel Embiid playing in 76ers vs Celtics Game 3?
A: No. Embiid is listed as OUT as he continues recovering from an emergency appendectomy. He is tagged as “doubtful” and has participated in limited practice, but is not expected to play in Game 3.
Q: What happened in Game 2 of the 76ers vs Celtics series?
A: Philadelphia won 111-97 in Boston. VJ Edgecombe posted 30 points and 10 rebounds, Tyrese Maxey added 29 points and 9 assists, and the 76ers shot 49% from three compared to Boston’s 26%.
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