Regardless of the defensive strategy, Embiid still produced for the Sixers. After the opening few minutes, Boston switched to having Porzingis or Al Horford, once he checked into the game, defend Embiid.

Embiid had some success against this defensive alignment, including a possession where he spun around Holiday and dunked it over the crashing Porzingis. This allowed them to use Porzingis as more of a roamer defensively. They had Jrue Holiday defending Embiid, with a consistent double team, to begin the game. – The Celtics usually have crafty strategies defending against Embiid, and this game was no different. Here are some instant observations from the win over the Celtics: They play their first game of the NBA’s inaugural In-Season Tournament against the Detroit Pistons on Friday night. Jayson Tatum finished with 16 points, 15 rebounds, six assists and three steals. The Celtics were led in their losing effort by Kristaps Porzingis, who scored 29 points on 10-of-18 shooting. Tobias Harris finished with 17 points and nine rebounds. Tyrese Maxey added in 25 points, nine rebounds and five assists. Joel Embiid led the Sixers with 27 points, 10 rebounds, four assists and four blocks.

The Philadelphia 76ers extended their winning streak to six games with a 106-103 win over the Boston Celtics on Wednesday night at Wells Fargo Center.