Game 1 Preview: Boston Celtics vs Philadelphia 76ers

Lots of questions coming into Game 1, none bigger than the status of Sixers big man Joel Embiid.

UPDATE: Philadelphia team officials have ruled Joel Embiid (knee) out for tonight's Game 1 matchup.

BOSTON – The Boston Celtics have not put a lot of stock in published reports this season, so why start now? 

Philadelphia head coach Doc Rivers has been consistent in his messaging about Joel Embiid since the MVP candidate suffered a knee sprain and missed Philly’s close-out win over Brooklyn in the first round of the playoffs. 

Rivers has maintained for days that Embiid will likely be listed as doubtful for tonight’s Game 1 matchup. 

Joel Embiid, lacing up his sneakers prior to Monday’s morning shoot-around. Courtesy of A. Sherrod Blakely.