The Philadelphia 76ers refused to let their season die, riding a tremendous performance from Tyrese Maxey to force a decisive Game 7 against the Boston Celtics via a 106-93 win. In a game defined by urgency and execution, Philadelphia controlled the tempo for long stretches and never truly let Boston find a rhythm.
Maxey’s scoring burst set the tone, while the supporting cast delivered timely plays on both ends to close the door. Now, it all comes down to one game. But before that, let’s break down how each Sixer performed in this season-saving win.
Tyrese Maxey: A+
Game Stats: 30 PTS, 2 REB, 5 AST, 2 STL, 11-22 FG, 3-5 3PT, 5-5 FT, 40 MIN
This was Maxey’s night, plain and simple. From the opening tip, he played with a level of aggression and confidence that Boston simply couldn’t contain. Whether it was attacking off the dribble, pulling up from deep, or finishing through contact, Maxey dictated the game offensively.
What made this performance even more impressive was his efficiency and control – zero turnovers in 40 minutes while carrying the scoring load. In a season-defining game, Maxey didn’t just show up; he took over.
Paul George: A
Game Stats: 23 PTS, 4 REB, 3 AST, 2 STL, 1 BLK, 4 TOV, 8-17 FG, 5-9 3PT, 2-2 FT, 40 MIN
Paul George delivered a steady, two-way performance that perfectly complemented Maxey’s explosion. His perimeter shooting was critical in stretching Boston’s defense, knocking down five triples with confidence. Defensively, he made his presence felt with active hands and solid positioning, helping disrupt passing lanes and contest shots without fouling excessively.
That said, the four turnovers were a slight blemish, especially in moments where Boston tried to claw back. Still, George’s ability to impact the game on both ends, and hit timely shots makes this a strong outing in a must-win scenario.
Joel Embiid: A
Game Stats: 19 PTS, 10 REB, 8 AST, 1 STL, 1 TOV, 6-18 FG, 1-5 3PT, 6-7 FT, 34 MIN
This wasn’t a dominant scoring night for Joel Embiid, but it was a highly impactful one nonetheless. Boston threw multiple bodies at him, forcing tough looks and limiting his efficiency. Instead of forcing the issue, Embiid leaned into playmaking, finishing just two assists shy of a triple-double.
His defensive presence in the paint and control on the glass were crucial, even if the scoring wasn’t vintage Embiid. The ability to adapt and still influence the game at a high level speaks volumes, especially in playoff basketball.
Kelly Oubre Jr.: A
Game Stats: 14 PTS, 9 REB, 1 AST, 2 STL, 2 BLK, 3 TOV, 6-11 FG, 1-3 3PT, 1-2 FT, 39 MIN
Oubre brought energy, athleticism, and defensive intensity – exactly what Philadelphia needed from him. His near double-double was paired with strong defensive contributions, including multiple stocks (steals + blocks) that swung momentum.
While he wasn’t a primary scoring option, his efficiency and willingness to attack gaps kept the offense flowing. The turnovers were a minor issue, but overall, this was a high-impact, winning performance.
VJ Edgecombe: B
Game Stats: 14 PTS, 8 REB, 3 AST, 2 BLK, 5-11 FG, 1-6 3PT, 3-3 FT, 38 MIN
VJ Edgecombe provided a well-rounded performance, contributing across multiple areas. His rebounding and rim protection stood out, giving Philadelphia valuable secondary production alongside the stars.
The outside shot wasn’t falling consistently, but he stayed engaged by attacking the glass and making smart defensive reads. For a young player in a high-pressure game, this was a composed and impactful showing.
Adem Bona: B-
Game Stats: 2 PTS, 7 REB, 1 BLK, 1-1 FG, 13 MIN
Bona quietly made an impact with his activity on the glass and defensive presence. Like Drummond, he maximized limited touches and focused on doing the dirty work.
His energy helped keep Boston from generating second-chance opportunities during his minutes.
Justin Edwards: C+
Game Stats: 2 PTS, 5 REB, 2 TOV, 1-3 FG, 0-2 3PT, 10 MIN
Edwards had limited minutes and a limited offensive role, but he contributed modestly on the glass. His impact was mostly neutral, with a couple of missed opportunities offensively.
In a tight rotation, he didn’t hurt the team, but didn’t significantly move the needle either.
Andre Drummond: C+
Game Stats: 2 PTS, 7 REB, 1 BLK, 1-1 FG, 13 MIN
Drummond did what he does best—rebound. In just 13 minutes, he provided a strong presence on the boards and even chipped in a block defensively.
His offensive role was minimal, but his physicality helped stabilize the second unit. Solid, if unspectacular.
Quentin Grimes: C
Game Stats: 2 PTS, 3 REB, 2 AST, 1-6 FG, 0-3 3PT, 22 MIN
Grimes struggled to find his rhythm offensively, missing five of his six shots. Despite that, he stayed engaged defensively and contributed a bit as a secondary playmaker.
Still, Philadelphia will need more shot-making from him in Game 7 if he continues to see this kind of floor time.
