The Boston Celtics defeated the Philadelphia Sixers 114-102 in Game 3 of their Eastern Conference semifinal series on Saturday.
Jason Tatum had 27 points and 10 rebounds on 10 of 20 shooting from the field for the Celtics, who have now won two straight games to take a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven series. Jaylen Brown added 23 points and seven rebounds for Boston, and Al Horford finished with 17 points and seven rebounds after sinking five 3-pointers.
For the Sixers, Joel Embiid of Philadelphia scored 30 points, grabbed 13 rebounds, and had four blocks after being recognized for earning the NBA MVP award before the game.
James Harden struggled from the floor for the second straight game, but he still managed to score 16 points and dish up 11 assists for the third-seeded 76ers.
Speaking after the game, Joel Embiid had advice for James Harden. “Be aggressive. Can’t get too high, can’t get too low. Some nights you’re going to make lots of other shots, a lot of tough ones, and some nights you’re not going to make them. So it’s about finding other ways to impact the game.” He said.
