Jayson Tatum scored 21 points and outplayed his former Boston teammate, Jaylen Brown, while Paul George scored 36 points in his return to Philadelphia, leading the Celtics past the 76ers 123-101 on Tuesday night.
Pre-Game Frostiness and Game Action
Brown ran into early foul trouble and scored only 13 points with four turnovers in his first game against Boston since being traded over the summer to the Sixers. Their head-to-head showdown was heavily anticipated due to the intense scrutiny surrounding their relationship, though both players avoided making public comments about it.
Before the opening tip, Tatum attempted to greet Brown with a tap on the shoulder and chest thump, but his former teammate ignored the gesture. Tatum later shook hands and shared a hug with LeBron James.
Post-game, Tatum declined to expand on the interaction before the match, stating he was simply getting ready for the jump ball, competing, having fun, and trying to secure a win. Brown echoed a similar sentiment, stating he was focused on helping his team and was not paying attention to anything else, while giving credit to Tatum for playing well.
The two athletes were long-time teammates who secured an NBA championship together in Boston before personal friction disrupted their dynamic partnership. Brown had previously mentioned last month that there was no conflict between them, while also posting cryptic remarks on social media.
Team Performances and Injury Scares
The matchup was heavily promoted by Peacock, which streamed the game and marketed the duel like a classic heavyweight fight. George, who was traded in exchange for Brown following two seasons with the 76ers, enjoyed a strong homecoming performance, celebrating after sinking his fourth three-pointer to push the Celtics toward their ninth win in 10 games.
During the contest, the 76ers experienced a brief injury scare when Joel Embiid landed awkwardly on a missed layup attempt and curled up on the floor. Embiid managed to run down the court gingerly as the half-time buzzer sounded with Boston leading 62-51.
Embiid has struggled with health issues throughout his career and has faced shooting slumps this season. Despite the defeat, the 76ers hold a 9-3 record and sit second in the Eastern Conference standings behind the 9-2 Celtics.
