Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers headline three NBA playoff Game 7s
The Boston Celtics will host the Philadelphia 76ers this weekend as one of three decisive Eastern Conference Game 7s set to conclude a dramatic opening round of the 2026 NBA playoffs.
The first round of the postseason has delivered thrilling finishes, upsets and historic comebacks.
For only the second time since the opening round expanded to a best-of-seven format in 2003, three separate series will go the distance.
All the win-or-go-home action takes place in the Eastern Conference.
The New York Knicks await the victor of the blockbuster clash between Boston and Philadelphia.
Meanwhile, the Detroit Pistons play the Orlando Magic and the Cleveland Cavaliers face the Toronto Raptors to determine the other conference semi-final matchup.
Sixers look to break Boston hoodoo
Philadelphia head coach Nick Nurse appears to have found a winning formula against their fierce Atlantic Division rivals.
Former MVP Joel Embiid has successfully navigated double-teams to create high-quality opportunities for his team-mates.
Boston’s defence has consistently struggled to contain the blistering pace of Tyrese Maxey.
Furthermore, veteran forward Paul George is finally delivering the dominant performances expected since his lucrative arrival nearly two years ago.
The Sixers will desperately hope to conquer their historic struggles against the Massachusetts franchise.
Philadelphia have not defeated the Celtics in a postseason series since 1982.
Three-point reliance for Mazzulla’s men
Boston’s playoff success under head coach Joe Mazzulla remains heavily reliant on perimeter shooting.
The hosts boast an exceptional 17-1 postseason record when converting at least 40% of their attempts from beyond the arc.
Conversely, that record drops to an even 19-19 when falling short of that crucial mark.
Boston must also establish control on the offensive glass to counter Philadelphia’s imposing frontcourt.
Starting centre Neemias Queta will be heavily scrutinised during the decisive encounter.
The Portuguese big man has struggled immensely against Embiid, despite enjoying a breakout regular season following the departures of Al Horford and Kristaps Porzingis.