Jayson Tatum Got Himself Connected Just in Time in Game 6 — Boston Celtics Advance to East Finals with Game 7 Blowout

Jayson Tatum was struggling. Really struggling. Looking to the heavens and wondering when a shot will fall struggling. The Boston Celtics were on the brink. Game 6 was winding down and the season was on the line.

After taking a 2–1 lead over the Philadelphia 76ers in the Eastern Conference Semis, the Celtics lost a heartbreaker in Game 4.

First a brief overview.

Game 1

Embiid was recovering from a sprained knee ligament, and James Harden played like Houston MVP-level Harden. The Celtics underestimated the undermanned Sixers and lost. The defense was lacking. Boston perked up in the second half, but couldn’t overcome their slow start. A bitter pill to swallow, but these Celtics play their best when down.

Sixers 119, Celtics 115

Game 2

Boston responded with a blowout win. Embiid looked extra rusty. Harden sank back to Earth. Both teams looked entirely different in Game 2.

Celtics 121, Sixers 87

Game 3

Boston’s defense again locked down everyone except Embiid. Harden and Maxey combined to shoot 7 of 30 and 2 of 14 from inside the arc.

Celtics 114, Sixers 102

Game 4