Harden’s 45 points push 76ers past Celtics 119-115

76ers rallied without Joel Embiid to beat Boston 119-115 in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals on Monday night. James Harden was the main man for Philly and showed his vintage self.

Harden matched his playoff career high with 45 points and hit a go-ahead, step-back 3-poInter over Al Horford with 8.7 seconds left on the clock.

Tyrese Maxey added 26 points and Tobias Harris finished with 18 for the Sixers, who made 17 3-pointers with Embiid watching from the bench.

James Harden vs Boston Celtics

45 PTS
6 AST
2 STL
17/30 FG
7/14 3P
+8 in 39 minutes.#76ers W.#BrotherlyLove #NBA #NBAPlayoffs pic.twitter.com/ogl4RN5IPd

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Lowry re-inking with Philadelphia, staying in his hometown

— A Walking Highlight (@11AWH) May 2, 2023

He sprained his right knee in Game 3 of Philadelphia’s first-round sweep of the Brooklyn Nets and is still recovering.

Boston hosts Game 2 on Wednesday night.