Sixers Celtics Game 2 Preview

On Saturday night the Sixers definitely proved that they can hang with and beat the Boston Celtics.  The Sixers seemed to be in control for much of game one, but essentially ran out of the steam at the end and the Celtics' veterans took over.  Tonight the Sixers have a great opportunity to even the series.  Here are the keys to a Sixers' victory tonight.

Continue To Push Tempo
The Sixers were most successful in game one when they pushed the ball in transition.  Instead of forcing the half court offense, the Sixers did a very good job of utilizing their speed and athleticism to generate easy shots in transition.  The Sixers need to continue to increase the tempo of the game tonight.

Stop KG
The Sixers gave Kevin Garnett way too many open looks on Saturday night.  Garnett went 12-20 from the field good for a game high 29 points.  The Sixers need to double up on Garnett and make somebody else beat them.

Defense
In the fourth quarter on Saturday it seemed like the Celtics hit a switch and started knocking down shots.  Rondo, Pierce, and Garnett all seemed to heat up at the same time and as a result the Sixers lost.  The Sixers need to buckle down on defense especially when the fourth quarter comes around.

Elton Brand 
If Elton Brand doesn't pick up his game, the Sixers will lose this series.  Brand was just 2-5 from the field with 4 points in game 1 and the Sixers need to get him involved.  Collins needs to run more pick and rolls with Brand and also just think of ways to get him open looks.

Focus On Split
The Sixers can't be thinking about what will happen in future games of this series.  The Sixers have to be fully focused on getting the split and bringing this series back to Philadelphia 1-1.

Overall I was very impressed with the Sixers' effort in game 1.  They played with a lot of heart in front of a very hostile environment.  But the Sixers can't be satisfied with just a good performance.  They have to be hungry to win, because they definitely have the talent to eliminate the Celtics.