Joel Embiid Sinks Celtics in Game 5 as 76ers Move Closer to Eastern Conference Finals

The Philadelphia 76ers dominated the Boston Celtics in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals, 115-103, to take a 3-2 series lead. Led by MVP Joel Embiid and 17 points, eight rebounds, and 10 assists from James Harden, the 76ers powered to a 30-point explosion by Tyrese Maxey and shot 50 percent from the field overall to keep the Celtics at bay.

"I think James was a magician tonight," said 76ers coach Doc Rivers of Harden. "He called a perfect game."

Embiid was also instrumental to the 76ers win, putting up 33 points, seven rebounds, three assists, and four blocked shots. Despite being in a position to advance to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time, he wasn't focused on that just yet. "Honestly, I don't care," he said. "We still got to get one more, and that's all I'm thinking about right now."

Tobias Harris, limited with foul trouble all night, still managed 16 points and 11 rebounds, while Maxey's 3-point barrage showed the importance of ball movement for the 76ers to keep the Celtics at bay. With one more win the 76ers can secure the franchise's first championship in 40 years and a spot in the Eastern Conference Finals.