Five Key Takeaways from Sixers’ Series-Tying Game 4 Win Over Celtics

The Philadelphia 76ers have breathed new life into their Eastern Conference semifinals series against the Boston Celtics with a much-needed Game 4 victory. After two disappointing games, the Sixers finally found their playoff gear and put up a bruising, physical performance that overwhelmed their opponents. With the series now tied at 2–2, the stage is set for a thrilling Game 5 on Tuesday night.

Here are the five main takeaways from Philadelphia’s thrilling 116–115 overtime victory that has now tied the series at 2–2:

Harden Shakes Off His Struggles

James Harden, who struggled in Games 2 and 3, was challenged by his coach and the media, among others, but he stepped up in Game 4, hitting seven of his first eight shots and scoring 18 points in his first 13 minutes. He finished the game with 42 points, while Joel Embiid added 34, accounting for two-thirds of the Sixers’ scoring.

Late-Game Thrills

Both teams showed their nerves and resilience in Game 4, with the lead changing hands multiple times. After the game went into overtime tied at 107, the extra five minutes thrilled and tormented both sides. With 38 seconds left, the Celtics took a 115–113 lead, but a mismatched Embiid against Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown gave Harden the opportunity to hit the game-winner from the right corner with 19 seconds left.

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Tatum’s Resilience

Jayson Tatum demonstrated his resilience in Game 4, bouncing back from a disappointing first half to score 17 points in the second half, adding nine rebounds and four assists. He finished with 24 points, 18 rebounds, six assists, a steal, and four blocks.

Embiid’s Struggles in the Fourth Quarter

Despite an impressive final stats line, with 34 points, 13 rebounds, and 12 of 15 shooting from the foul line, Joel Embiid had a lackluster fourth quarter, allowing Al Horford to guard him and appearing hesitant to force action inside. The Sixers ran out of steam for much of the fourth, and Tucker called out Embiid’s lack of assertiveness, saying, “Not with the season on the line.”

The Ballad of P.J. Tucker

P.J. Tucker, renowned for his tenacity and defense, delivered when the Sixers needed him most, grabbing Tobias Harris’ airball, laying it up, and getting fouled for the 3-point play to tie the game. Although his stats in the game were not spectacular, Tucker has a long-standing reputation for leaving a lasting impact on his coaches, and is currently working his magic for the Sixers.

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As the series heads back to Boston for Game 5, the pressure is on both teams to deliver a win. With the momentum now swinging in Philadelphia’s favor, the Celtics will need to find a way to regain control of the series. Will Joel Embiid be able to bounce back and lead his team to victory, or will the Celtics’ resilience and determination carry them to another win? The NBA playoffs never disappoint, and this series is shaping up to be a true battle.

Note: ChatGPT helped me structure this article, I typically ask ChatGPT to help me write a blog post outline then I take the reigns from there