Celtics Edge Unbeaten Sixers 109-108 in NBA Cup Opener

The Boston Celtics secured a narrow 109-108 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers in the opening game of the NBA Cup in-season tournament, with Jaylen Brown leading the Celtics with 32 points and strong contributions from Anfernee Simons, Derrick White, and Payton Pritchard. The Celtics built a commanding 24-point lead in the second quarter and managed to hold off a late rally led by Tyrese Maxey, who scored 26 points for the 76ers. Joel Embiid, playing under a minutes restriction due to knee surgery, added 20 points for Philadelphia. Despite the loss, the 76ers entered the tournament undefeated and are viewed as strong contenders in the Eastern Conference Group B, which includes the Celtics, Nets, Pistons, and Magic. The NBA Cup's format involves each team playing their group opponents once, with group winners and a wild card advancing, adding competitive significance to early-season games. Betting interest is high, with Tyrese Maxey expected to be a key scorer for the 76ers, while Embiid's minutes and scoring remain closely monitored due to his limited playtime.