Joel Embiid Dominates Celtics in Game 5 Win

Joel Embiid scored 33 points and handed out 8 assists as the Philadelphia 76ers defeated the Boston Celtics 113-97 in Game 5.

What happened?

The 76ers cut the series deficit to 3-2 with the win on Tuesday night.

Joel Embiid had an appendectomy less than three weeks ago, but he dominated the Celtics in the second half.

He scored consistently after posting up in the paint and went to work.

Embiid's performance was one of the best and most impactful of his playoff career.

He has scored more and had postseason games with more rebounds and better statistics in general.

But he dragged Philadelphia to a win at TD Garden on Tuesday.

Tyrese Maxey scored 25 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, while Quentin Grimes had 18 points.

The 76ers will host the Celtics in Game 6 on Thursday.

Embiid is so skilled that he can affect a game offensively at three levels.

He bent Boston's defense in a way the Celtics haven't been in all series.

For much of the past two years, Embiid's body has gotten the best of him.

But he has maintained the desire to play and be on the floor for himself and his teammates.

And Embiid started 1-for-7 from the field, but he found his rhythm in the second half.

The win was a reminder that even though he has played in just 38 games this regular season, his talent and ability are still worth it.

'I want to play basketball,' Embiid said.

'I don't know how much time I have left to play this game, so I want to play,' he added.

'I was proud of him tonight,' Maxey said.

'To see him go out there under those circumstances and play like that: he was dominant, especially in the second half,' Maxey said.

Embiid's impact went far beyond his numbers, as he canceled out the Celtics' star duo of Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum.

The 76ers needed a superstar, and Embiid was the best player in the game.

He scored consistently and dominated the Celtics in the second half.

The 76ers will look to build on the momentum from the Game 5 win.

Embiid's performance was a reminder of his talent and ability.

He is a rare center who can affect a game offensively at three levels.

And the 76ers will need him to continue playing at a high level if they want to advance in the playoffs.

The Game 6 matchup between the 76ers and Celtics is set for Thursday.

The 76ers will look to even the series and force a deciding Game 7.

Embiid's health will be a key factor in the series, as he has dealt with injuries throughout the season.

But he has maintained the desire to play and be on the floor for himself and his teammates.

And the 76ers will need him to continue playing at a high level if they want to advance in the playoffs.