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The Boston Celtics defeated the Philadelphia 76ers in seven games in the 2023 Eastern Conference playoffs, and the two teams will face off again when the 2026 first-round series tips off at TD Garden today.
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Jaylen Brown has delivered an MVP-caliber season, and my 76ers vs. Celtics predictions expect the 2024 Finals MVP to come through with a strong performance in Game 1.
Read on to find out why I expect Brown to stuff the stat sheet in a comfortable home victory in my NBA picks for Sunday, April 19.
76ers vs Celtics prediction
76ers vs Celtics best bet: Jaylen Brown Over 36.5 points + rebounds + assists (-112)
With Jayson Tatum sidelined for most of the season and key players from the Boston Celtics title run playing for new teams, Jaylen Brown asserted his dominance and delivered the best statistical campaign of his career. Brown averaged career highs in points (28.7), rebounds (6.9) and assists (5.1).
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Brown finished with 37 PRA in 52 of 71 games overall, including 27 of 38 games at TD Garden. His production didn’t slip much with Tatum back in action.
Brown averaged 41.2 PRA without Tatum and 31.4 in 13 games with Tatum in the lineup. He accumulated 37+ PRA in nine of 13 games played with his superstar teammate.
Brown found success against the Philadelphia 76ers this season, averaging 38.6 PRA across four matchups. He delivered 37+ PRA twice and finished with 35 twice more.
The 76ers will be without defensive anchor Joel Embiid yet again, making this a favorable matchup for Brown. Philadelphia’s 116.5 defensive rating without Embiid would rank ninth-worst in the Association.
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After a disappointing exit in the 2025 playoffs, the Celtics look primed for a deep postseason run, and their success will depend heavily on Brown’s leadership and performance.
After proving that he can be “the guy” for a contending team in the regular season, I expect Brown to carry that momentum and mindset into the playoffs and set the tone early for he and his teammates.
