Sixers' Rebuilt Core Meets a Boston Test in Preseason

Philadelphia's untested new starting five visits Boston with questions at center and on workload.

PHI @ BOS Oct 11, 2026 at 12:00 AM UTC

The biggest story in this preseason game is Philadelphia's makeover. The 76ers added four-time champion LeBron James in free agency and acquired five-time All-Star Jaylen Brown, putting them alongside Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe. On paper that is a formidable starting five. In practice it is untested, and the preseason is where the spacing, shot distribution and defensive communication get sorted out. Expect some rough stretches as the pieces learn each other.

Playing time is the other variable. James, Embiid and Maxey were all healthy scratches when Philadelphia opened the preseason with a 120-97 win over the Knicks. The Sixers have said they intend to be careful with James's minutes and availability, given his age and the length of the regular season. Even if the stars play, short stints are likely, and the bench could handle a large share of the game.

Depth up front is a real concern. Ariel Hukporti is out for the season with a ruptured right Achilles, and Fall and Bona are both questionable. If Embiid is limited, Philadelphia could struggle to protect the rim and hold the glass for long stretches. That is the clearest matchup edge Boston can press.

The Celtics have their own questions. Several players are questionable or returning from injury, and Sam Hauser is listed with a rest designation, so their rotation may be fluid too. Still, Boston is at home and has fewer questions about how its group fits together. Philadelphia has the higher ceiling, but the thin frontcourt and managed minutes tilt this one slightly toward the home side.

Prediction: Celtics 111, 76ers 107.

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