Sixers force Game 7 after thrilling 106-93 win over Celtics

The Philadelphia 76ers forced a Game 7 with a 106-93 win over the Boston Celtics in Game 6, powered by strong performances from Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid and Paul George.

Here’s what stood out.

The greatest playoff win of the Process era?

From the opening tip, the Sixers’ effort was unquestionable.

Playing physically on both ends, the Sixers made it known early that they had no intention of going gentle into that good night.

After a signature performance by Joel Embiid in Game 5, some had hoped to see Tyrese Maxey take his turn. While the ultimate focus was on the win, to accomplish it, Maxey came prepared and delivered a memorable performance, scoring 30 points and igniting Philadelphia’s offense.

Despite Maxey asserting himself, Embiid and Paul George had no issue playing major roles in the team’s success on both ends as the former MVP finished with a near triple-double of 19 points, 10 rebounds and eight assists, while Paul George had 23 points on a much-needed 5-of-9 shooting night from three.

Defensively, this was among the Sixers’ most impressive wins of the season, holding the Celtics to under 100 total points for the second straight game.

From start to finish and on both ends, this was among the most complete performances the Sixers have put forth in the decade-plus since “The Process” began. This win is near if not at the top of, the most impressive of the Joel Embiid era, and it won’t soon be forgotten.

Coming into Game 6, the Sixers had played 72 playoff games since the start of “The Process.” In that span, they have a record of 36-36, meaning that with this win, they are now above .500 in the postseason in the Joel Embiid era.

Other takeaways

• Kelly Oubre was everywhere in this game. With highlight-worthy plays on both ends, working backdoor cuts, blocking shots and taking charges, Oubre continues to do the dirty work for Philadelphia, playing an underappreciated but invaluable role.
• Nick Nurse once again went to Andre Drummond as the primary backup to Embiid and…he was solid, more than, even. The past arguments for Bona remain valid, but we’re talking about effectively eight or so minutes of a 48-minute game.
• Credit to Sixers fans who kept the energy up throughout this game. Jaylen Brown securing free chicken for fans surely played a role in their mood, but they consistently had the home team energized throughout the game.
• If this game marks the end of the Matt Cord era in Philadelphia, then so be it. The Sixers did everything in their power in Game 6 to make his departure memorable. Still, don’t say goodbye too quickly. Game 7 has yet to be played, and the Sixers have already won twice in Boston. What’s one more?

Up next for the Sixers

The Sixers will head back to Boston for a win-or-go-home Game 7 matchup against the Celtics. Momentum has fully swung in the Sixers’ direction, but there’s no time to ease up. This upcoming matchup will be among the toughest tests the Sixers have faced in the Joel Embiid era. A win would mean more than advancing to the second round; it would mean the world to a team, its players and its fans who have seen the Sixers fall short time and time again when it mattered most.

Tip-off is set for Saturday, May 2, with the start time yet to be determined.

Unless otherwise stated, all stats included in this article are via NBA.com, PBPStats, Cleaning the Glass, Basketball Reference or Team Rankings. All salary information via Spotrac.