The 2025-26 NBA season tips off with a blockbuster Eastern Conference clash as the Philadelphia 76ers visit the defending champion Boston Celtics at TD Garden. This marquee matchup features MVP candidates Joel Embiid and Jayson Tatum in a battle that could set the tone for both teams’ championship aspirations.

With Boston holding a 6-point halftime lead and Embiid sidelined, the 76ers face an uphill battle against the league’s deepest roster. Live stats show the Celtics dominating assists (15-11) and rebounds (28-24), showcasing their trademark team basketball. Can Philadelphia’s young guards overcome the odds, or will Boston’s home crowd celebrate another victory?

76ers vs Celtics 2025: Live Score Updates, Highlights, and Expert Predictions for the NBA Season Opener

Eastern Conference Showdown: 76ers vs Celtics Tips Off 2025-26 NBA Season

The NBA’s 2025-26 season begins with fireworks as the Philadelphia 76ers clash with defending champion Boston Celtics at TD Garden. This marquee matchup features two franchises with championship aspirations and a rivalry that’s grown increasingly intense over recent seasons.

The Celtics enter as favorites after their dominant title run last June, while Philadelphia looks to prove their offseason moves have closed the gap. Boston’s core of Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown and Kristaps Porzingis remains intact, complemented by Sixth Man of the Year candidate Derrick White.

Key storylines to watch:

• Philadelphia’s new offensive system under assistant coach Sam Cassell
• Boston’s championship hangover potential
• The Tyrese Maxey vs. Derrick White point guard battle

The energy in this building is electric! What I’m watching closely is whether Philly can withstand Boston’s trademark third-quarter surges – the Celtics outscored opponents by +82 in that period last season.

Live Score Updates: Celtics Take Early Command

Through the first half, Boston leads 58-52 behind Jayson Tatum’s 18-point outburst. The All-NBA forward is attacking mismatches aggressively, while Philadelphia’s Maxey has responded with 16 points of his own.

Key first-half statistics:

The Celtics’ ball movement (15 assists) is creating quality looks against Philadelphia’s switching defense. Boston’s bench has also contributed 22 first-half points, exposing Philly’s shallow rotation.

Player Spotlight: Defensive Adjustments

Philadelphia started Paul Reed in place of injured Joel Embiid, but the Celtics are targeting him in pick-and-roll situations. Coach Nick Nurse has already employed three different defensive schemes trying to contain Tatum.

Smart coaching adjustment alert! Nurse just switched to a 3-2 zone that forced two straight Boston turnovers. The chess match between these staffs is fascinating.

Embiid’s Absence Looms Large for 76ers

Philadelphia’s title hopes took an early hit with Joel Embiid ruled out for the opener due to knee soreness. The reigning scoring champion’s absence creates massive problems against Boston’s elite frontcourt.

The statistical impact is staggering:

• 76ers are -7.3 points per 100 possessions without Embiid last season
• Boston is +12 in paint points through two quarters
• Celtics shot 58% at rim with Embiid not protecting it

Philadelphia’s small-ball lineup featuring P.J. Tucker at center has kept them competitive, but sustaining this for four quarters appears unlikely against Boston’s size.

This is why championship teams need depth. Philly’s backup centers have combined for 2 points and 3 fouls. Someone needs to step up or this could get ugly after halftime.

How to Watch: Broadcast and Streaming Options

Fans have multiple viewing options for this nationally televised matchup:

• TV: ESPN (national), NBC Sports Boston (local Celtics), NBC Sports Philadelphia (local 76ers)
• Streaming: NBA League Pass, ESPN+, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV
• Radio: 98.5 The Sports Hub (Boston), 97.5 The Fanatic (Philadelphia)

For international viewers, NBA League Pass International offers live coverage with local commentary options in 12 languages. The league’s new “Follow Your Team” package allows single-team subscriptions at reduced rates.

Second Screen Experience

The NBA App provides enhanced viewing with:

• Multiple camera angles including “Above the Rim” view
• Real-time player tracking statistics
• Integrated betting odds during gameplay

Pro tip: Enable stats overlay with the ‘Slam Cam’ view to truly appreciate how fast these teams move without the ball. The Celtics’ off-ball actions are poetry in motion!

Expert Predictions: Can Philadelphia Pull Off the Upset?

NBA analysts are divided on tonight’s outcome:

The betting markets have moved significantly since opening, with Boston now favored by 8 points after Embiid’s inactive status was confirmed. The total has dropped from 228.5 to 225 as sharps expect a more physical second half.

My feathers are ruffled by everyone counting out Philly! Remember last season when they beat Milwaukee without Embiid? Great teams find ways. That said…Boston’s depth is scary.

Second Half Keys to Victory

As play resumes, these factors will determine the outcome:

1. Three-point variance: Boston shot just 31% from deep in first half
2. Foul trouble: Both teams in bonus with 7+ team fouls
3. Transition game: Celtics lead 12-4 in fast break points

The third quarter could be decisive – Boston had the NBA’s best third-quarter net rating (+11.3) last season, while Philadelphia ranked 19th. Coach Nick Nurse needs to prevent his team from getting buried during Boston’s signature run.

Coaching Adjustments to Watch

Both benches are making strategic changes:

• Boston doubling Maxey on every pick-and-roll
• Philadelphia using more zone defense to protect paint
• Celtics deploying “Havoc” full-court press on made baskets

Brilliant timeout by Nurse after Boston’s 6-0 run! He’s switching to a small-ball lineup with Harris at center. High-risk, high-reward move against Porzingis.