With an ugly Game 1 loss lingering over their heads, the Boston Celtics returned to form on Wednesday night, overpowering the Philadelphia 76ers en route to a 121-87 Game 2 win. Jaylen Brown led the charge, asserting himself on both ends as the Celtics spoiled Joel Embiid’s much-anticipated return following his MVP coronation.
From the jump, the Celtics put an emphasis on the defensive end. Brown drew the James Harden assignment and made it his mission to pester the 76ers star, who put up 45 points in Game 1. Brown picked up Harden beyond half-court and refused to let him get comfortable.