Well, it's the Sixers in Round 2.
The Celtics messed around and found out. And now, we have the red-hot Sixers in a very intriguing second-round matchup. Before even diving into the series, I immediately think about that 2023-2024 1st Round match-up that I often refer to as the series that took years off of my life.
Then again, there was Divo's shot that will forever bring a smile. There is also this dunk from OG Anunoby on Embiid (certified, real Garden villain):
The 76ers are super talented on paper. And they have an incredibly high ceiling if healthy and playing together. The Celtics just found that out. That is my biggest fear for this round.
When I boil all the stats, sets, and simple eye-test assessment down, what's left is this: can the Knicks stop contain Tyrese Maxey?
That's it.
- My Key Matchup: Karl-Anthony Towns vs. Joel Embiid
- How can you not look at this right away?! Embiid has dominated KAT in the past. However, do we still get the "showtime" KAT we saw in the first quarter dominating the game without taking many shots?
- My Key Stats:
- 28.3 PPG - That's what Maxey gave teams during the regular season, which was fifth in the league. He's going to score, and likely at an efficient rate. However, what is interesting is that he is averaging 26.3 points per game, which is equal to...Jalen Brunson.
- 43 Games - That is the number of regular-season games that Joel Embiid played this season. Embiid's injury history is no secret. In a series scheduled with only one day between games, it will be interesting to see how (if) he holds up. Same for Paul George.
- My Key Player: Mikal Bridges
- Have you lost your mind?! No, just stay with me. KAT and Embiid are about to be must-see. So is Brunson vs. Maxey. And likely, Anunoby vs. George will be the same. While I think we'll get some Aunanoby minutes at the center to run Embiid off the court, and an argument can be made for the bench mob in Duece McBride, Mitch Robinson, and Jordan Clarkson, and to some extent, Jose Alvarado. However, the absolute wild card is Bridges! And he's such a key factor.
- Can he provide added defensive pressure?! I anticipate him getting the assignment to start the series on Maxey. And of course, if he gets going like he (and EVERYONE else) was in Game 6 vs. the Hawks, it poses plenty of issues for the 76ers.
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