Sixers vs Celtics: Tatum's Return Sparks Intense Playoff Battle

0:00It's April 18th, Boston Celtics news today starts now, AI-powered and game ready. I'm Cory with the story. The Philadelphia Sixers are gearing up for their playoff clash with the Boston Celtics and a huge factor is Jason Tatum's full return after missing. There are four regular season games due to a torn Achilles from last year's playoffs. The Celtic star has bounced back strong in 16 games, putting up 21.8 points, 10 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per. Game. Tatum brings that all-around threat, even if his shooting efficiency is off at 41.1% from the field and 32.9% from 3, still below his usual marks. Boston can explode offensively, so the Sixers know they have to lock him down from deep range and in the post. Sixers coach Nick Nurse isn't sweating it too much since he's skimmed against Tatum plenty before. He calls him a great player with elite footwork, skill moves, and perimeter pop that demand tough defense every time out. Nurse and his staff have dug deep into a solid game plan, ready to tweak matchups as game 1 unfolds and the series progresses.

1:07Plus, they've got nine-time All-Star Paul George Healthy and primes a how-and-tatum and Jalen Brown on the wings. That sets the stage for a intense battle starting Sunday at 1 p.m. Eastern from TD Garden should be fireworks as these teams fill each other out early.