Philadelphia’s starters supplied all but six of the club’s points on Thursday, pushing the 76ers past Boston and forcing a decisive Game 7 at TD Garden on Saturday.
Tyrese Maxey paced the lineup with 30 points, while Joel Embiid finished just shy of a triple-double at 19 points, 10 rebounds and eight assists. Paul George added 23 points, four boards, three assists and two steals, anchoring a defense that held the Celtics to 41.9 percent shooting.
George called his first season in Philadelphia “rock bottom” after appearing in only 41 games during the 2024/25 campaign and watching the team win just 24 contests despite his four-year max deal. Limited to 37 games this season because of a 25-game suspension that doubled as recovery time for knee issues, the 34-year-old said he now feels physically renewed. “It’s fun again,” George noted. “I’m finally enjoying it now that I can do the things I used to do.” Maxey added that George returned from the suspension “on a mission.”
Rondo’s Coaching Ambitions
With Rajon Rondo reportedly on New Orleans’ radar for its head-coaching vacancy, the two-time NBA champion told The Athletic he believes two seasons as a coaching associate in Milwaukee have prepared him to lead a team. Rondo worked closely with breakout guard Ryan Rollins and said he now has “the discipline” and “preparation” required for a top job, emphasizing the importance of surrounding himself with trusted staff.
Heat Plan for 2027 Cap Room
President Pat Riley confirmed in his annual postseason media session that Miami intends to create significant salary-cap space in 2027. According to the Miami Herald, that strategy makes long-term extensions or multiyear agreements for Tyler Herro, Andrew Wiggins and Norman Powell unlikely over the next year as the club prioritizes flexibility.
Thompson’s Quiet Impact
Cade Cunningham poured in 45 points during Detroit’s Game 5 victory on Wednesday, but head coach J.B. Bickerstaff singled out Ausar Thompson as the “silent hero.” The second-year swingman posted just six points yet led the Pistons in rebounds (15), assists (six), steals (five) and blocks (two). Eligible for a rookie-scale extension this offseason, Thompson drew praise for embracing tough defensive assignments and “creating chaos” with his length and energy.
Source: Hoops Rumors
