It was a close one in Philadelphia, but with a solid team effort, the 76ers took advantage of a struggling Boston Celtics team. Led by Jrue Holiday, who had a game-high 20 points, the Sixers tied the series after an 82-75 win in Game 6.
Holiday was one of five Sixers players in double figures. On a night where their three point shots were not sinking, going 1-9 from beyond the arc, they were able to share the ball and get high percentage shots as they shot close to 46% from the floor.
A game that saw 11 lead changes and six ties seemed to turn around, in favor of Philadelphia, after an Andre Iguodala monster dunk. As the shot clock was ticking down and about three seconds left, Iguodala sprinted to the net for the slam as he was fouled. After a free throw, the Sixers were up 46-41.
The Celtics were able to tie the game a couple of times, but were never able to take the lead.
Boston struggled heavily in this game. Had they shot decently from the floor, there would be no Game 7. The Celtics only shot a measily 33% from the floor. Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce kept their team in the game combining for 48 points and 21 rebounds.
They were the only Boston players in double figures.
Not trying to take anything from the Sixers' victory, but Rajon Rondo was not himself in this game. He only had six assists and nine points. Six assists from Rondo will not help the Celtics get into the Eastern Finals.
Rondo does not have to score as long as he is able to find open players. Not helping the cause was Brandon Bass' eight point performance and shooting just 2-12 from the field. He had a monster Game 5, but could not follow up on this performance. Ray Allen went 4-11 from the floor and 1-5 from beyond the arc. He had nine points.
When you miss 50 shots in a game, like Boston did, there will be a lot of rebounding opportunities. If it helps, the one thing the Celtics did well was rebound. They won that battle 48- 37. Most importantly, they were able to get 14 offensive boards.Their problem was putting the ball in the hoop.
All in all, the Sixers did a great job taking advantage of a weak Boston performance. Elton Brand had a double-double scoring 13 points and grabbing 10 rebounds. Holiday had six assists to accompany his 20 points.
Game 7 will be played in Boston on Saturday. The Celtics will have two days to rest their veteran legs. The Sixers will use those two days to relax their weared out nerves.
