dailyloe.com – The Boston Celtics face the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 4 of the East First Round of the 2026 Playoffs. The Celtics lead the series 2-1 and aim to solidify their dominance. Game 4 is scheduled for Sunday at 7 PM ET, broadcasted on NBC and Peacock.
One significant factor is the potential return of Joel Embiid. He has missed the first three games due to recovery from an appendectomy. Embiid was listed as doubtful on the Game 4 injury report, with his absence impacting the Sixers’ performance.
The Sixers struggled without Embiid, holding an 11-10 record when he, Tyrese Maxey, and Paul George played together. In the regular season, the team performed better with Embiid, showing a plus-5.8 points per 100 possessions. His presence is crucial for the Sixers’ offensive efficiency.
Historically, the Sixers have been significantly better with Embiid on the floor during the playoffs. They have a net rating of 17.1 points per 100 possessions better with him compared to without. This trend has persisted across seven postseasons under various coaches and team compositions.
Embiid’s performance against the Celtics earlier this season was mixed. He scored 20 points in a loss on Halloween but only managed four points in a win on opening night. His ability to contribute remains a pivotal question for Game 4.
Another critical aspect of the series is the 3-point shooting. The outcomes of all three games have favored the team with better 3-point shooting. The Celtics have excelled in this department, emphasizing the importance of long-range accuracy.
As the 76ers seek to regain momentum, finding easy scoring opportunities will be vital. They need to establish a rhythm and capitalize on offensive chances to stay competitive in the series.
With the Celtics aiming for a commanding 3-1 lead, and the 76ers desperate to even the series, Game 4 promises to be a pivotal matchup in the playoffs.
