Celtics storm to early lead, roll past 76ers in series opener

Boston cruises to 123-91 victory in Game 1 of Eastern Conference first-round playoff series

Apr. 20, 2026 at 1:35am

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A vibrant, expressionist painting depicting the fast-paced action of a basketball game, with players' forms dissolving into colorful brushstrokes that capture the raw energy and intensity of the playoff matchup.The Celtics' decisive Game 1 victory over the 76ers showcases the team's explosive offensive firepower and defensive intensity as they look to make a deep playoff run.Boston Today

The Boston Celtics dominated the Philadelphia 76ers from start to finish, cruising to a 123-91 victory in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference first-round playoff series. Jaylen Brown scored a game-high 26 points, while Jayson Tatum added 25 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists for the second-seeded Celtics, who never trailed in the game. The seventh-seeded 76ers struggled offensively, shooting just 38.9% from the field and 17.4% from 3-point range.

Why it matters

This lopsided win gives the Celtics a commanding 1-0 series lead over the 76ers, who were expected to put up a tougher fight. The Celtics' dominant performance showcases their depth and balance, with multiple players contributing significant scoring and rebounding efforts.

The details

The Celtics jumped out to an early double-digit lead and never looked back, stretching their advantage to as many as 35 points in the fourth quarter. Boston's defense stifled the 76ers, who committed 15 turnovers and made just 4 of 23 3-pointers. Tatum scored 21 of his 25 points in the first half, while Brown poured in 16 of his 26 points in the third quarter to keep the Celtics in control.

  • The game was played on Sunday, April 20, 2026.
  • Game 2 in the series will be played on Tuesday, April 22, 2026.

The players

Jaylen Brown

A star forward for the Boston Celtics who scored a game-high 26 points in the win.

Jayson Tatum

The Celtics' star forward who contributed 25 points, 11 rebounds and 7 assists in the victory.

Tyrese Maxey

The 76ers' guard who led his team with 21 points and 8 assists in the loss.

Paul George

The 76ers' veteran forward who scored 17 points in the defeat.

Neemias Queta

The Celtics' center who scored 13 points in 15 minutes of playing time despite foul trouble.

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What they’re saying

“We came out with great energy and intensity from the start. That set the tone for the rest of the game.”

— Jayson Tatum, Celtics Forward

“They were the aggressors tonight. We have to be better in all facets of the game if we want to have a chance in this series.”

— Tyrese Maxey, 76ers Guard

What’s next

Game 2 in the series will be played on Tuesday, April 22, 2026 in Boston. The 76ers will look to even the series, while the Celtics aim to take a commanding 2-0 lead.

The takeaway

The Celtics' dominant performance in Game 1 showcases their championship pedigree and the challenges the 76ers face in trying to upset the higher-seeded Celtics. Boston's depth, defense and balanced scoring attack proved too much for Philadelphia to handle in the series opener.