Tatum’s Playoff Return Sparks Celtics to 123-91 Game 1 Win

Boston Cavaliers? No—the Boston Celtics rolled to a 123-91 win over the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference first round. Jayson Tatum returned from Achilles surgery with 25 points, 11 rebounds and 7 assists, while Jaylen Brown added 26 as Boston never trailed. Philadelphia, missing Joel Embiid due to an appendectomy, struggled from deep (4-for-23) and trailed 33-18 after the first quarter, ultimately falling behind 71-95 entering the fourth. Tyrese Maxey led the Sixers with 21 points and 8 assists in the loss. Game 2 is Tuesday in Boston, with the Celtics taking a 1-0 series lead.