The Boston Celtics will face the Philadelphia 76ers on Nov. 8. Boston will be looking to bounce back from their first loss of the season at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves. This will be the first meeting between the Celtics and Sixers in the post-James Harden era. Nick Nurse has altered the Sixers’ style of play, and it could pose a threat to Boston’s defensive structure.
According to Tobias Harris, who was speaking to the media after a recent practice session, the Sixers are viewing the Celtics as a litmus test. Philadelphia and Boston both have a 5-1 record over their first six games. The Celtics consistently play well against their conference rivals and usually secure a victory.
“Yeah, 100% (it’s a litmus test.) They’ve been playing great basketball. So, we’re gonna embrace this challenge and opportunity. We truly believe we have a great group here…Obviously, we want to go up against the best and see where we stand…We wanna be challenged…We got a great team, and everybody in here knows and understands that.”
Without Harden in the rotation, Tyrese Maxey has emerged as a serious threat alongside Joel Embiid. Boston’s perimeter defense will be tested against the Sixers. The potential return of Derrick White is coming at the perfect time. Jrue Holiday and White are two of the best guard defenders in the NBA.
Tobias Harris on Wednesday’s showdown with the Boston #Celtics as a litmus test for the #Sixers. pic.twitter.com/6DG15rZ23u
— Keith Pompey (@PompeyOnSixers) November 7, 2023
Philadelphia will likely be out to avenge their game-seven loss to Boston in the second round of the Eastern Conference playoffs. This will be a good test for both sides to see how they handle a hostile environment and playoff-level physicality between two teams that know each other extremely well.
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