76ers Defeat Celtics, Highlighting Boston's Defensive Struggles

Philadelphia's Christmas Day victory over the defending champions underscores the Celtics' recent inconsistencies and the 76ers' resurgence after a poor season start.

The Philadelphia 76ers secured a 118-114 win over the Boston Celtics, marking Boston's first back-to-back losses this season and their fourth in seven games.
Tyrese Maxey led the 76ers with 33 points and 12 assists, while Joel Embiid contributed 27 points despite a pregame injury scare.
Caleb Martin, a known Celtics rival, scored 23 points on 7-of-9 three-point shooting, capitalizing on Boston's defensive lapses.
The Celtics struggled with injuries, missing Jrue Holiday and losing Kristaps Porzingis to an ankle issue during the game, while turnovers and defensive inconsistency plagued their performance.
The 76ers, who started the season 3-14, have now won eight of their last eleven games, showing renewed playoff potential as their key players return to form.