Boston Celtics host Philadelphia 76ers in Game 2 of playoff series

Celtics lead 1-0 after dominant Game 1 win

Apr. 20, 2026 at 6:03am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a basketball game in motion, with overlapping shapes and planes representing the players, ball, and court in an abstract, cubist style.A cubist interpretation of the intense playoff matchup between the Celtics and 76ers, capturing the dynamic energy and strategic clashes of the game.Boston Today

The Boston Celtics host the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 2 of their Eastern Conference first-round playoff series, with the Celtics holding a 1-0 lead after a 123-91 victory in the series opener. The Celtics are led by Jaylen Brown's 26 points, while the 76ers' Tyrese Maxey scored 21 points in the loss.

Why it matters

This series is a rematch of last year's Eastern Conference semifinals, with the 76ers looking to even the score after being eliminated by the Celtics. The outcome could have major implications on the rest of the playoffs, as the winner of this series will likely face the defending champion Milwaukee Bucks in the next round.

The details

The Celtics have been dominant at home this season, going 10-6 against division opponents and ranking third in the league in made 3-pointers per game. The 76ers, meanwhile, have been strong in transition, averaging 16.9 fast break points per game. Philadelphia will need to find a way to slow down the Celtics' offense and get out in transition to have a chance at evening the series.

  • The game is scheduled for Tuesday, April 20, 2026 at 7 p.m. EDT.
  • The Celtics won Game 1 of the series on Sunday, April 18, 2026.

The players

Jaylen Brown

The Celtics' star forward, who led the team with 26 points in Game 1.

Tyrese Maxey

The 76ers' young guard, who scored a team-high 21 points in the Game 1 loss.

Derrick White

The Celtics' sharpshooter, who leads the team in 3-pointers made per game this season.

VJ Edgecombe

The 76ers' leading scorer in fast break points per game, a key part of their transition offense.

Joel Embiid

The 76ers' star center, who is listed as day-to-day with an abdominal injury.

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What they’re saying

“We have to come out with a lot more energy and focus in Game 2. Boston exposed some of our weaknesses, and we need to make the necessary adjustments.”

— Tyrese Maxey, 76ers guard

“Our defense was the key in Game 1. We need to continue to pressure the 76ers and not let them get comfortable on offense.”

— Jaylen Brown, Celtics forward

What’s next

If the Celtics win Game 2, they will be one win away from advancing to the Eastern Conference semifinals. If the 76ers even the series, it will set up a pivotal Game 3 back in Philadelphia.

The takeaway

This series features two of the Eastern Conference's top teams, with the Celtics looking to build on their dominant Game 1 performance and the 76ers aiming to make the necessary adjustments to even the series. The outcome could have major implications on the rest of the NBA playoffs.