Surprise X-Factor Named Ahead of Celtics Game 7 Clash vs. 76ers
The Boston Celtics face the Philadelphia 76ers in a decisive Game 7 after losing Game 6, despite holding a 3-1 series lead. ESPN's Zach Kram has identified Celtics center Neemias Queta as the unexpected X-factor for Boston's chances. Queta's ability to stay out of foul trouble and contain Joel Embiid could determine the outcome of the winner-takes-all game.
- ▪The 76ers defeated the Celtics 106–93 in Game 6, forcing a Game 7 after being down 3–1 in the series.
- ▪Neemias Queta, a 26-year-old center and former second-round pick, has been named Boston’s Game 7 X-factor by ESPN’s Zach Kram.
- ▪Queta started 75 games this season, averaging 10.2 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks while shooting 65.3% from the field.
- ▪He struggled against Philadelphia due to foul trouble caused by Joel Embiid’s physical play and shot faking.
- ▪The Celtics had a plus-13.2 net rating with Queta on the floor during the regular season, highlighting his importance to the team.
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By Rowan Fisher-ShottonShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberSee more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.The Boston Celtics walked into Game 6 on Thursday night with a chance to close the door on the Philadelphia 76ers, and instead lost to a team many had counted out weeks ago. The Celtics were outplayed from the opening stretch in a 106–93 loss, undone by cold shooting, turnovers, and an inability to contain a surging Tyrese Maxey, who poured in 30 points to keep Philly alive. The Sixers set the tone early and never let up, flipping what once looked like a comfortable 3–1 Celtics series lead into a full-blown crisis.
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