Celtics at 76ers
THE STORY: The first two games of the series were both decided by one point and it figures to be another close encounter as the second-round series shifts to Philadelphia for Game 3. The 76ers notched an 82-81 victory in Boston on Monday to even the series after blowing a double-digit, fourth-quarter lead in Game 1 as the Celtics prevailed 92-91. Philadelphia is gaining confidence and won both home games against Boston in the regular season.
TV: 7 p.m. ET, TNT
ABOUT THE CELTICS: Boston forward Paul Pierce is being greatly hindered by the left knee injury he suffered in the Atlanta series. Pierce is 5 of 20 from the field and averaging 10.5 points. He scored seven points in Game 2. Guard Avery Bradley reaggravated a shoulder injury in Game 2 and is unable to play at the level he did late in the regular season. Ray Allen is receiving more playing time despite his ankle woes and scored a team-high 17 points in Game 2. Point guard Rajon Rondo is averaging 15 assists. Rondo had 13 against one turnover in Game 2.
ABOUT THE 76ERS: Second-year guard Evan Turner made big plays down the stretch and rookie post Lavoy Allen was a key contributor in both games in Boston. Turner scored six of his 10 points in the final three minutes, including driving for the go-ahead basket with 40.4 seconds left. Allen is averaging 11 points and 7.0 rebounds in the series after averaging 4.1 points and 4.2 rebounds in the regular season. “Our young guys just keep growing and they’re really becoming men,” Philadelphia coach Doug Collins said. “I have to tell you all season long, we couldn’t win these games and now our guys are believing they can do it and it’s pretty special to watch.”
BUZZER BEATERS
1. The 76ers limited Boston to 24 total points in the second and third quarters of Game 2.
2. Celtics forward Kevin Garnett is averaging 24.0 points and 12.3 rebounds over the past three games.
3. Philadelphia forwards Elton Brand (5.5 points, 2.5 points) and Thaddeus Young (4.5 points) have been non-factors in the first two games while dealing with minor injuries – neck for Brand and ankle for Young.