NFL Previews 
MLB Previews 
NBA Previews 
NHL Previews 
Soccer Previews 
Game Preview: Boston Celtics vs Philadelphia 76ers
The Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers renew their rivalry Friday night at Xfinity Mobile Arena as NBA Cup play begins. Philadelphia (4-0) is one of the league’s last unbeaten teams, while Boston (2-3) looks to even the season series and hand the Sixers their first loss.
The Sixers already beat Boston 117-116 on opening night behind 74 combined points from Tyrese Maxey and rookie VJ Edgecombe. Maxey remains red-hot, averaging 37.5 points and 8.3 assists while shooting 47% from three. Philadelphia rallied from 19 down Tuesday to stun Washington 139-134 in overtime, continuing its impressive turnaround from last year’s injury-plagued 24-58 season.
Boston has won two straight since starting 0-3, rolling past the Cavaliers 125-105 behind Jaylen Brown’s 30 points. The Celtics’ defense has tightened up, while role players like Neemias Queta and Josh Minott have brought new energy to Joe Mazzulla’s rotation.
For real-time odds and Cup group standings, check the NBA scores and odds board and the expert betting guide.
Access the Top Sports Picks in Real Time
Never Miss a Winning Edge Again
Line Movement and Odds
The 76ers opened as 2-point favorites, with the total at 234.5. Early bettors have leaned toward Boston, expecting its defense to slow down Philadelphia’s scorching offense.
Philadelphia sits in East Group A alongside Boston, Indiana, Atlanta, and Washington. See how each team ranks in the NBA Eastern Conference odds predictions and Atlantic Division outlook.
Boston Celtics Outlook
Boston’s season turned around with back-to-back wins, capped by a 20-point blowout in Cleveland. Jaylen Brown has been leading the way, averaging 26.8 points over the last four games, while Sam Hauser’s 21-point performance Wednesday added crucial bench scoring.
The Celtics currently lead the league in defensive efficiency, allowing the fewest points per game and limiting opponents to the lowest field-goal percentage. Their defensive rebounding has also improved, controlling over 75% of available boards in their last two outings.
Role players have become a key story for Boston. Neemias Queta and Josh Minott combined for 21 points and 28 rebounds in the win over the Cavs, helping fill the interior gap left by Kristaps Porzingis’ inconsistent start.
Celtics Injury Report
- Kristaps Porzingis (F/C) – Probable (Knee)
- Jayson Tatum (F) – Probable (Wrist)
- Derrick White (G) – Questionable (Hip)
More on Boston’s betting outlook in the NBA Atlantic Division odds predictions.
Philadelphia 76ers Outlook
The Sixers have stormed out of the gate behind Tyrese Maxey’s MVP-level play. Maxey dropped 39 points and 10 assists in an overtime win at Washington, carrying a team still waiting for key contributors to return.
Philadelphia leads the NBA in scoring (129.2 ppg) and ranks first in three-point shooting (41.9%). Even with Joel Embiid limited to about 20 minutes per game, the Sixers have managed to overwhelm defenses with pace and spacing.
Quentin Grimes has also stepped up, delivering 23 points, seven rebounds, and five combined steals/blocks in the Wizards win. Rookie VJ Edgecombe continues to provide energy and athleticism, while center Adem Bona has given productive minutes filling Embiid’s gaps.
76ers Injury Report
- Joel Embiid (C) – Limited (Knee)
- De’Anthony Melton (G) – Out (Shoulder)
- Paul Reed (F/C) – Questionable (Ankle)
Get deeper insights on player futures in the NBA MVP odds predictions and Defensive Player of the Year odds.
Key Matchup / Path to Victory
- Tyrese Maxey vs Jaylen Brown: Maxey’s scoring streak will be tested by Boston’s perimeter defense. Brown’s ability to counter with pace will decide momentum.
- Bench Play: The Celtics’ depth advantage could be critical if Embiid remains on a minute restriction.
- Pace vs Control: Philadelphia thrives in chaos; Boston prefers structure. Whoever dictates tempo wins.
Betting Trends
- Celtics are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 road games.
- 76ers are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 as favorites.
- Under is 5-2 in Boston’s last seven road games.
- Over is 4-1 in Philadelphia’s last five games.
Turn Insights Into Winning Tickets
Handicapping Built for Bettors Who Think Ahead
Prediction
Philadelphia’s offense is electric, but Boston’s defense is built to slow it down. Expect a back-and-forth battle where the Celtics’ rebounding and shooting depth keep it close deep into the fourth quarter.
Projected Score: 76ers 115, Celtics 114
Best Bet: Celtics +2.0
Total Lean: Under 234.5
Scores and Stats Handicappers
Track verified NBA Cup betting models, expert picks, and profit leaders on the Scores and Stats Handicappers page. Stay updated with real-time ROI stats, ATS trends, and in-depth Cup coverage from NBA analysts.
