Why the Celtics' Game 2 loss to the Sixers is actually not a bad thing originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Boston Celtics suffered a brutal Game 2 loss in the first round of the NBA Playoffs to the Philadelphia 76ers, losing by 14. This comes right after winning the opener, setting a franchise record with a 32-point dub.
However, while the C’s did lose, it’s not all bad news for the perennial championship contender. In fact, some good came out of this loss, as it taught the Celtics multiple things that can help them win it all this year. It also matches up with past playoff performances, one of which led to a championship.They aren’t invincible The Celtics were considered a rebuilding or retooling team going into this season without Jayson Tatum, and yet they managed to finish the season with a record of 56-26 and the second seed in the Eastern Conference.Getting Jayson Tatum back probably convinced them they were unbeatable, and that 32-point win over Philly furthered that mindset.
So, this loss acts as a wake-up call, that they can’t get cocky, and need to stay locked in in order to move on to the next round.Celtics’ history with Game 2In the Celtics past 20 playoff games at home, they have an overall record of 14-6. They are 11-2 in all games except for Game 2, where they are 3-4. If the trend continues, that should mean the Celtics in five is still right on schedule.Another interesting thing about first round Game 2s is the last time they lost one, they went on to win the NBA Finals.
They lost to the Miami Heat in 2024, where they went on to go 16-3 in the entire playoff run to win the title.Celtics on the roadThe Celtics record on the road in the playoffs is also insane. In their last 34 playoff games, they are 23-11. In the 69 games before this core was formed, the Celtics were 26-46.There are six franchises that don’t even have 23 road wins, and the Celtics as a whole have 49.
Boston is built to win, all thanks to their coaching staff, front office and roster.With all of this in mind, Boston fans shouldn’t be too worried about this loss. In fact, they better go into Game 3 with a smile on their faces, as the Celtics should be ready to go back to normal.MORE NBA CONTENTTrail Blazers predicted to be dark horse to trade for $150 million two-time Finals MVP, create Big Three with Deni Avdija, Damian LillardSixers predicted to make blockbuster trade for $150 million two-time Finals MVP, part ways with either of Joel Embiid, Paul George in processPistons predicted to make blockbuster trade for $150 million two-time Finals MVP to create Big Three with Cade Cunningham, Jalen Duren