Celtics star Jaylen Brown urges squad to increase defensive pressure on Joel Embiid ahead of Game 6
Following the 76ers' victory in Game 5, Brown highlighted that Embiid exploited open opportunities during his return from an appendectomy, averaging 29.5 points over two games. The Celtics must now adjust to neutralise Embiid's efficiency, particularly as their starting centre, Neemias Queta, has struggled with foul trouble in recent contests.
Boston Celtics superstar Jaylen Brown has stated that his team must make it more difficult for Philadelphia 76ers centre Joel Embiid to score easy baskets. Brown commented on this strategy following Game 5, where Embiid averaged 29.5 points and 36.5 minutes over two games after returning from an appendectomy.
Brown noted that Embiid had too many easy opportunities, which propelled the 76ers, and emphasised the need to force him to work harder in the upcoming Game 6. The Celtics lost Game 5 at home to Philadelphia, and the 76ers have won two consecutive games on Boston's home court.
In the two games that Embiid has played, Celtics centre Neemias Queta has struggled with foul trouble, committing four fouls in Game 4 and five in Game 5. This has limited his ability to guard Embiid in the paint, a role Queta is tasked with containing the seven-timer.
The 76ers are seeking a Game 7 victory in Philadelphia on Thursday night to force a decisive final game. Although their offense struggled in a big way on Tuesday night in the fourth quarter, Jaylen Brown is hoping Boston's fortunes turn around in Game 6 if they can manage to contain Embiid.
The specific tactical adjustments the Celtics will implement in Game 6 to address Brown's comments remain unconfirmed. Whether Neemias Queta will be able to stay in the game without fouling out again in Game 6 is also unknown.
