Paul George delivered a commanding performance during his return to Philadelphia, scoring 36 points and sinking six three-pointers as the Boston Celtics secured a 123-101 victory over the 76ers on Tuesday night. The nine-time All-Star overshadowed the anticipated matchup between former teammates Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, who were trading partners this summer. George’s efficiency from deep, finishing 6-of-11 from three-point range, was instrumental in allowing Boston to pull away from the host team.
Since joining the Celtics, George has embraced a larger offensive role, averaging more points and shot attempts in his first ten games this season compared to his final year with Philadelphia. He noted that the increased usage has allowed him to play at his best, stating that he is better with more responsibility. George explained that while he was not always healthy enough to handle the workload in Philadelphia, Boston has given him the opportunity to be himself on the court.
The game featured a notable rivalry moment between Tatum and Brown, who were traded for one another after the 2024 NBA Finals. Brown struggled early with foul trouble, picking up two quick fouls in the first quarter and his fourth violation early in the second half. He finished the game with 13 points, while Tatum contributed 21 points for the Celtics. Both players have kept their frosty relationship private, refusing to speak much about their personal dynamics ahead of this first in-person meeting since the trade.
George’s impact was most visible in the fourth quarter, where he scored 14 consecutive points to put the game out of reach for the Sixers. Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla praised George’s ability to recognize defensive coverages and play two-way basketball. Mazzulla noted that the game slowed down for George, allowing him to get into a groove offensively, which was exactly what the team needed to close out the contest.
During the second half, George celebrated a run that extended Boston’s lead to 100-82 by giving a middle finger in a bowling motion to a fan in the stands. He explained the gesture after the game, saying the fan had dropped the ball on the ground as if expecting him to fetch it. Instead of passing the ball back, the fan stared at George, prompting the reaction.
The Sixers had a late scare when Joel Embiid landed awkwardly on a missed layup attempt. The two-time scoring champion curled up on the court, and VJ Edgecombe even dunked over him before Embiid gingerly ran down the court as the second half ended with Boston leading 62-51. Embiid’s health has been a long-standing concern, and the team has been cautious with his minutes, avoiding back-to-back appearances.
Embiid has struggled with his shooting this season, missing all nine of his shots from the floor in a loss to Cleveland last Friday. Entering Tuesday’s game, he had missed 27 of his last 30 three-point attempts. However, he broke his recent cold streak late in the first half by hitting his first three-pointer since the second game of the season. Despite the effort, the Sixers could not overcome the Celtics’ offensive surge.
Tyrese Maxey led the Philadelphia scoring with 24 points, but the team was unable to keep pace with Boston’s balanced attack. The Celtics’ victory extends their lead in this renewed rivalry, with George’s return to his former city serving as the defining moment of the night.
