Final: Sixers 115, Celtics 103 - Celtics can't hit shots, can't get stops

Celtics vs. Sixers

Game 5, 7:30 p.m. 

TD Garden

Line: Boston -7.5

Refs: Marc Davis (#8), Josh Tiven (#58), Tyler Ford (#39)

Injuries: 

Boston- Gallinari (out). Philadelphia- Joel Embiid (knee, questionable)

Projected Starters

Boston: Marcus Smart, Derrick White, Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Al Horford

Philadelphia: James Harden, Tyrese Maxey, Tobias Harris, PJ Tucker, Joel Embiid

What I’m looking for

- Attention to detail: As I wrote earlier, these guys are too good to be making the mistakes they are making. I want to see them focus and do these little things that lead to success. Pay attention to the small things like boxing out, communicating on defense, running the offense, and success will follow.

- Running Embiid into the ground: He was fried by the end of Game 4. Doc Rivers acknowledged that before the game and suggested he might adjust the minutes he’s off the floor … which means I’ll add “win the non-Embiid” minutes” to this section as well. It starts with pushing the pace early and forcing Embiid to keep up. Wear him out early and make Rivers make a decision. Part of Boston’s fourth quarter comeback in Game 4 was the result of Embiid not having anything left. Do that again. 

- More Robert Williams: If there is less Joel Embiid, then I’m looking for more Robert Williams to match up with Paul Reed. That's Rob’s matchup in this series, and Rivers went away from it so he could keep Embiid on the floor. If that changes, then Rob’s role changes. 

How I think it will go:

Hello adversity. You are a welcome sight for the Celtics. 

I’ve said a million times, this is when Boston is at its best, so I expect a big response after hearing everyone rip them apart (rightfully) for their late-game execution. 

The only question is whether they can build a big enough lead to feel comfortable in this game and whether the Sixers have it in them to come back. Will Harden have another huge game, or will he fall back into his Games 2 and 3 mode. 

Despite everything, I still believe in Boston’s talent and their track record in these situations. I think they get an easy one. 

Follow along below or in the comments during the game, chime in, and let’s have fun.