NBA Playoffs Game 3 Celtics vs 76ers: Game Preview and Prediction

Boston Celtics @ Philadelphia 76ers Game Details

Date: Friday, April 24, 2026

Time: 7:00 PM ET / 4:00 PM PT

Location: Xfinity Mobile Arena, Philadelphia, PA

TV: Prime Video

Betting Line: Celtics -7.5

Over/Under: 215.5

Series Status: Tied 1-1

Celtics vs 76ers Prediction & Game Preview

This Eastern Conference playoff matchup between the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers shifts into a pivotal Game 3, with momentum hanging in the balance after a dramatic response in Game 2.

Boston enters this matchup looking to regroup after a surprising 111-97 loss at home. The Celtics, who dominated Game 1 with their trademark spacing and defensive efficiency, struggled to maintain offensive rhythm in the rematch. Despite having both Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown available and healthy, Boston was outworked and disrupted by Philadelphia’s physical defensive approach. Now, Game 3 becomes a test of their championship DNA—can they quiet a hostile road crowd and return to their elite two-way identity?

Philadelphia, meanwhile, is riding the energy of a statement win that flipped the tone of the series. Even without Joel Embiid, the 76ers have embraced a relentless, high-effort style built around pace, ball movement, and “next-man-up” contributions. By stealing home-court advantage, the Sixers have turned this into a best-of-five series with two straight games in their building. With the crowd behind them, Philadelphia looks to prove that their Game 2 performance was no fluke.

From a betting perspective, this matchup centers on control versus chaos. Boston relies on structure and efficiency, while Philadelphia thrives on energy and disruption.

Top 4 Prop Bets

Prop Bet #1: Tyrese Maxey Over 27.5 Points

DraftKings

4.5/5

Tip: Maxey Over 27.5 Points

• Speed
• Volume
• Value

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Tyrese Maxey has emerged as the driving force behind Philadelphia’s offense, and his performance in Game 2 showed just how difficult he is to contain. His ability to attack the paint and create scoring opportunities in transition makes him a constant threat. With Embiid sidelined, Maxey’s usage remains extremely high, and he will continue to be the focal point. This prop offers strong value given his role and current form.

Prop Bet #2: Jayson Tatum Over 29.5 Points

Caesars

4.4/5

Tip: Tatum Over 29.5 Points

• Bounce-Back
• Star Power
• Value

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Jayson Tatum is due for a major response after a quiet Game 2 performance. As the centerpiece of Boston’s offense, his aggressiveness will be critical in Game 3. Expect Tatum to attack early and often, forcing Philadelphia’s defense to collapse and opening up scoring opportunities. Given the circumstances, this prop presents strong upside.

Prop Bet #3: Derrick White Over 2.5 Made Threes

FanDuel

4.6/5

Tip: White Over 2.5 3PT Made

• Spacing
• Efficiency
• Value

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Derrick White plays a crucial role in Boston’s offensive system, particularly as a perimeter shooter. When he is knocking down outside shots, the Celtics become significantly more dangerous. After a subpar shooting night in Game 2, expect White to see quality looks as Boston looks to reestablish its spacing. This prop offers solid value.

Prop Bet #4: Game Total Under 215.5 Points

BetMGM

4.5/5

Tip: Under 215.5

• Defense
• Physicality
• Value

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With Philadelphia emphasizing defensive pressure and Boston likely adjusting to slow the pace, this game could trend toward a lower-scoring affair. Both teams have shown the ability to lock in defensively, particularly in playoff settings where possessions become more valuable. This prop presents strong value given the expected intensity.

The Matchup Context: Stealing the Momentum

Boston looks to regain control and reestablish its identity, while Philadelphia aims to build on its Game 2 victory and take full advantage of home court.

Players to Watch

Tyrese Maxey (76ers): Offensive engine driving tempo and scoring.

Jaylen Brown (Celtics): Consistent two-way threat.

Paul George (76ers): Veteran presence providing stability.

Jayson Tatum (Celtics): Primary scorer expected to lead the response.

The Verdict

Prediction: Celtics 112, 76ers 106

Pick: 76ers +7.5

While Boston remains the more complete team on paper, Philadelphia’s energy and home-court advantage make the spread difficult to ignore. Expect the Celtics to respond and reclaim control of the series, but for the 76ers to keep the game competitive throughout.