Sixers falter in the second half, blow 26-point lead vs. Celtics

Sixers
Feb 2, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) drives against Philadelphia 76ers forward Justin Edwards (19) in the second quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images

PHILADELPHIA — After suffering a last-second loss to the Denver Nuggets, the Philadelphia 76ers hit their home court once again in a matchup against the defending champs, the Boston Celtics. Without Joel Embiid, Paul George, Andre Drummond, Eric Gordon, Caleb, and KJ Martin for yet another contest, many expected an ambulance to be needed for the hospital Sixers.

Philadelphia enjoyed a quick start after the tip, thanks to the efforts of Tyrese Maxey, who finished the first quarter with 16 points, leading to an eight-point Sixers lead. Philadelphia’s lead would grow over the course of the first half, giving the Sixers a 17-point lead at the half, thanks to some otherworldly shooting.

Feb 2, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey (0) reacts with guard Kyle Lowry (7) and guard Ricky Council IV (14) against the Boston Celtics in the second quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images

It was not meant to last however as the Sixers, despite building their lead to as high as 26 points midway through the third quarter, went as cold as ice about halfway through the third quarter, and especially in the fourth. The Celtics outscored the Sixers 38-16 in the fourth and final quarter, sealing an eight-point win for Boston.

Up next for the Sixers

The Sixers will next take the court on Tuesday, Feb. 4, as they play host to the Luka-Doncicless Dallas Mavericks. No word yet on if Anthony Davis will make his team debut by that point, but it will be a storyline to watch. Sixers fans will be watching for the return of Joel Embiid, Paul George, Caleb Martin, and KJ Martin.

Jan 29, 2025; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving (11) reacts to fan during the second half against the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images

Tip-off is set for 7 p.m., and you can catch the game on NBA League Pass or, as always, listen live at 97.5 FM, the Fanatic.