76ers vs Celtics Odds Move as Joel Embiid Returns

Doc Rivers got the best version of his squad when they played the Boston Celtics on the road in Game 1 of their second-round series. Leading the charge was James Harden, who sank Celtic hearts with a 45-point night, including a dramatic three with only seconds left on the clock.

But now Philly sees the return of the player they need most to end the franchise’s championship drought.

As always, don’t forget to check out the NBA odds, props,  and Futures for all your basketball action.

Without further ado, let’s get to the big story.

76ers vs Celtics odds: Joel Embiid Returns for Game 2

With news of Joel Embiid’s return to action, Philadelphia’s odds heading into Game 2 have changed. They were +9 and now stand at +8. The moneyline has shifted as well, from +376 Wednesday morning to +309 in the afternoon.

Not to be overlooked, the series odds have slightly tightened. Before the announcement of the MVP’s return – before has was officially MVP, for that matter – Boston was pegged at -200 and Philadelphia at +147. As of this writing the Celtics are -154 favourites and the 76ers +115 underdogs.

There was a collective groan from the Philly faithful when it was announced ahead of Game 4 in the first round that Joel Embiid would miss action due to a knee injury. The 76ers still completed a sweep of the Brooklyn Nets, but the real worry was the possible next opponent: the Boston Celtics.

Boston took more time than expected to vanquish Atlanta in Round 1, but not enough for the MVP to fully recover, hence his absence in Game 1. That didn’t matter, as the 76ers took it 119-115.