Final: Celtics 114, Sixers 102 - Tatum's 27, closing stretch gives Boston a 2-1 lead

Celtics vs. Sixers

Game 3, 7:30 p.m. (7:50 tip)

Wells Fargo Center, ESPN

Line: Boston -2.5

Refs: Scott Foster (#48), Ben Taylor (#46), Mark Lindsay (#29)

Injuries: 

Boston- Gallinari (out), Blake Griffin (back, out). Philadelphia- Joel Embiid (knee, available)

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:

Check out my 3 keys for Game 3 piece from earlier today to get my thoughts on Horford finding his shot, Tatum giving maximum effort on defense, and the guys playing within themselves and not getting caught up in the madness of this game.

How I think it will go:

This is going to be a wild one. 

I expect the hate to be flowing more than Darth Vader and Emperor Palpatine recording a diss track. It’s Friday night, Philly fans will be well lubricated, and Embiid is getting the MVP before the game. This place is going to be insane.

I think it’s a scenario that actually focuses both teams. I think everyone will be making their Rocky references after the game when this becomes 48 minutes of haymakers being thrown. 

This will come down to late-game execution. Who can make the big plays when it matters? 

I know Boston has had its share of problems in that regard, but I trust the Celtics more than I trust 60% healthy Embiid and notorious playoff choker James Harden.

Tatum, meanwhile, is coming off a forgettable game and Al Horford is coming off a horrible shooting night. I think both of those guys respond with big nights and Boston takes a thriller. 

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