Sixers Analyze First Ten Games: Key Stats Ahead of Celtics Matchup

As the Philadelphia 76ers prepare to face the Boston Celtics for the third time in just 20 days, they hold a record of 6-4 for the current NBA season. This performance represents a significant improvement over the previous year’s rocky start. Despite facing several visible challenges, the team has shown resilience and a willingness to confront adversity, in contrast to last season’s struggles.

With ten games completed, it is insightful to delve into some key statistics that define the early part of the 2025-26 season for the Sixers, highlighting both the strengths and weaknesses of the team.

Joel Embiid’s Offensive Impact

One of the standout figures is Joel Embiid, who is averaging an impressive 30.3 points per 36 minutes. After a dismal opening night in Boston, where he scored just four points on 1-for-9 shooting, Embiid has rebounded remarkably. He has not only managed to score at least 20 points in every game since but has also demonstrated improved driving and foul-drawing abilities. In the recent victory over Toronto, Embiid played his most minutes of the season at 25:57 and scored a season-high 29 points.

Despite his offensive prowess, Embiid’s defensive metrics tell a different story. The Sixers have a defensive rating of 126.0 with him on the court, highlighting issues with his mobility. While he has shown flashes of effective shot-blocking, his lateral movement remains a concern, leading to difficulties in defending against faster opponents.

Guard Play and Team Performance

The Sixers’ net rating of +17.7 when guards Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe, and Quentin Grimes are on the floor underscores the importance of their backcourt. Coach Nick Nurse has leveraged a three-guard lineup effectively, resulting in an outstanding offensive rating of 121.8 during those minutes. This lineup has proved particularly effective, with Edgecombe displaying remarkable scoring ability and poise for a rookie.

Maxey has emerged as a key player, contributing a total of 332 points across the first ten games. He ranks among the league’s top scorers, showcasing versatility and an ability to attack from various angles. His improved free-throw shooting has further stabilized his scoring.

Edgecombe, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, has also made a significant impact. Averaging 16.3 points per game, he has recorded at least four rebounds and four assists in seven games, demonstrating his adaptability and maturity beyond his years.

Rebounding and Defensive Struggles

Despite their strengths, the Sixers continue to struggle in certain areas. Their offensive rebounding percentage stands at 35.6%, ranking fourth in the NBA, but they face challenges with defensive rebounding, which sits at 67.1%, placing them among the bottom tier of the league. This disparity reflects both the need for improved physicality in the frontcourt and the impact of smaller lineups.

The team’s net rating during third quarters is particularly concerning, at -36.3, the worst in the NBA. This trend has prompted questions about the team’s consistency and ability to maintain leads after halftime.

As the Sixers look towards their matchup against the Celtics, they will need to address these defensive lapses while continuing to leverage their potent offensive capabilities. The anticipated return of nine-time All-Star Paul George could provide a much-needed boost, particularly in defensive rebounding and overall team depth.

In summary, the early part of the 2025-26 season has been marked by notable performances, particularly from key players like Embiid, Maxey, and Edgecombe. As the team faces the Celtics, the outcome may hinge on their ability to correct current weaknesses while capitalizing on their offensive strengths.