The Celtics claimed a 125-119 victory over the 76ers on Friday, holding off a challenge by the Magic to maintain their status as the 1-seed in the Eastern Conference.
Here are the takeaways.
1. The Celtics have certainly put together more impressive (and more composed) wins than their victory on Friday. The Sixers were without Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, but thanks to a 26-point evening by Patrick Beverley (who was one missed free throw away from recording his career high in points) as well as other contributions across the board, the Sixers stayed even with the Celtics and even led midway through the fourth quarter despite the talent disparity.