NBA’s most compelling matchup No. 1: Boston Celtics vs. Philadelphia 76ers
As far as the best matchup in the first round, that label would have to be given to an Eastern Conference matchup that we could get either way – whether teams are seeding 1-16 or not. A good old fashioned Boston Celtics vs. Philadelphia 76ers series is one that would captivate fans everywhere and would add a new wrinkle of no homecourt advantage.
Assuming that Ben Simmons is healthy, this would be an intriguing series. Two years ago, the Celtics ended the Sixers season and we never got the rematch we all wanted last season. We could – and should – get that this season.
The Celtics would likely be favored, mostly because of how Jayson Tatum was playing before the hiatus. Though, if Simmons and Joel Embiid is healthy it could change the dynamic of the series. This is just a series I thoroughly want to see take place during these playoffs.
If I had to put my mortgage on it – funny thing, I don’t even have a mortgage, I’ve just always wanted to say that – I’d probably lean Celtics. Boston has better coaching and is a bit deeper, all around. Though you can never count out talent in the playoffs and that’s exactly what the Sixers have in their favor.