Al Horford Dominates in Celtics’ Gritty Victory

Celtics-76ers takeaways: Horford comes up big in C’s hard-fought win originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston

Three Key Storylines

The Boston Celtics outlasted the Philadelphia 76ers in a shootout at TD Garden, tying a season-high with 44 first-quarter points and shooting 70 percent from the floor, including 8-of-11 from 3. The Sixers, playing without stars Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, erupted for 72 first-half points and shot 58.2 percent, taking advantage of Boston’s turnover troubles to keep it close for all four quarters.

It was a back-and-forth game with 16 lead changes, culminating in a hard-fought 125-119 victory for the Celtics over their Eastern Conference rival. Jayson Tatum was ejected late in the third quarter, leaving the game after arguing with officials. However, Derrick White and Al Horford stepped up in his absence, with seven Celtics players scoring in double figures.

Sixers guard Patrick Beverley tied his career-high with 26 points, while De’Anthony Melton chipped in 21 of his own. Next, the Celtics will visit the Indiana Pacers on Monday night for the NBA In-Season Tournament knockout stage.

Al Horford comes up big

Horford stepped up for the C’s in Kristaps Porzingis’ absence, playing a crucial role in the win over his former team with key plays on both ends of the floor. He notched a season-high 20 points (7-9 FG) and was even better defensively, consistently contesting shots and making his presence felt with two huge blocks. Horford also contributed six rebounds, three assists, and a steal.

Derrick White picks up the slack

White was a stabilizing force for the Celtics, making a significant impact on both ends of the floor. He notched a team-high 13 points in the first half and remained a key contributor throughout the game, finishing with 21 points, six rebounds, five assists, and one steal and block.

Jayson Tatum has a night to forget

Despite being without their superstar for the entire fourth quarter, the Celtics held off the Sixers. Tatum was ejected at the end of the third quarter for arguing with the officials. He’ll look to avoid making the same types of mistakes in Monday’s In-Season Tournament showdown with Indiana.