The Sixers played more competitively than the last time they faced the Celtics (remember this post-snowstorm press conference?) but failed to take advantage of fourth-quarter opportunities on Sunday night, losing to the Celtics, 120-105, at the Wells Fargo Center.
The Sixers dropped to 9-61 and the Celtics improved to 40-30.
For a second straight season, the Sixers were swept by the Celtics in the season series.
Turning point
The Sixers had cut the Celtics' lead from 15 points to just four, 91-87, with 9:20 to play. Ish Smith missed a three-pointer that would have brought the Sixers within one. Carl Landry grabbed the offensive rebound, but Smith missed another jumper. Marcus Smart snagged the rebound and Evan Turner scored on the possession to give the Celtics a 93-87 advantage.
Playing like a vet
On a young NBA team, it was the ninth-year veteran Landry who led the Sixers with a season-high 26 points. Landry, who entered the game second on the team in field goal percentage (52.3), shot 10 for 18 from the field and 6 for 6 from the line. He also pulled down eight rebounds.
Inside the box score
Isaiah Thomas led the Celtics with 26 points (7 for 19 from the field, 10 for 10 from the line), six rebounds and eight assists. Jared Sullinger recorded a double-double with 17 points and 13 boards. Former Sixer Evan Turner recorded 14 points (8 for 15 from the field), nine rebounds and six assists. Amir Johnson shot an efficient 9 for 10 from the floor for 18 points and eight rebounds.
NBA
The Sixers were driven offensively by Landry (see above). Hollis Thompson scored 18 points (7 for 10 from the field, 3 for 4 from three), Smith had 14 points (5 for 14 from the field) and eight assists, and Nik Stauskas scored 12 points (4 for 8 from the field) with six boards and three dimes.
Overcoming injuries
Both teams were without key contributors. The Sixers continue to play without Jahlil Okafor (meniscus tear), Robert Covington (concussion protocol) and Richaun Holmes (Achilles strain). The Celtics were down Jae Crowder (ankle sprain) and Jonas Jerebko (sore ankle).
“We just have to be on our toes to play well with what we do and not necessarily be too caught up in everything that they’re doing,” Celtics coach Brad Stevens said of injuries before the game.
Playoff flashback
Elton Brand is no stranger to the Celtics. But the last time he faced them as a member of the Sixers was May 26, 2012, in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Brand scored 15 points and grabbed six rebounds in 34 minutes as a starter. The Celtics won the game and the series.
Up next
The Sixers begin a four-game road trip on Monday, when they will play the Pacers in Indiana. After that, they will face the Nuggets (Wednesday), Trail Blazers (Saturday) and Warriors (Sunday).