76ers vs. Celtics: Key Talking Points

Following their loss to the Indiana Pacers last night, the Philadelphia 76ers have a quick turnaround. They are back in action Wednesday night against the Boston Celtics in the second leg of a back-to-back.

This will be the second of four meetings between these teams this season. The Celtics and Sixers squared off in Philly last week, with Tyrese Maxey and company taking the victory.

As the Sixers look to go up 2-0 on the season series, here are some key talking points for the matchup.

How will Sixers look in first back-to-back of the season?

Facing off the Celtics is a big matchup as it is. Let alone on the back end of a back-to-back. How the Sixers look from a conditioning standpoint will be a key thing to watch in this one.

The Indiana Pacers are a young and physical team that likes to play fast. They were off to the races early and often on Tuesday, which caused the Sixers to expend a lot of energy. Coming off such a fast-paced matchup last night, Nick Nurse might need to go deeper into the bench to find some fresh legs.

Can the shorthanded Sixers make life difficult for the Celtics' stars?

When the Sixers beat the Celtics last week, their defense on Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown was a driving force. If they want to secure another victory, they'll have to do everything they can to make life tough for the pair of All-Stars.

Wing depth helped in their defense last week, but that won't be a luxury this time around. Along with Kelly Oubre being sidelined, Nico Batum has been away due to personal reasons.

With two fewer forwards at his disposal, Nurse will have to rely heavily on guys like Tobias Harris and Robert Covington to defend Tatum and Brown. The Sixers might catch a break as Brown is currently listed as questionable due to a non-Covid illness.

Is De'Anthony Melton finally breaking out of his slump?

By far one of the biggest positives from the Sixers' loss on Tuesday was the play of De'Anthony Melton. He's come out of the gates slow, but came alive against the Pacers. Melton finished the game with a season-high 30 points and shot a stellar 4-for-6 from beyond the arc.

Moving forward, the Sixers are going to need Melton to return to his efficient self from last year. Offensive production from the supporting cast has been an issue, and he is someone who can help rectify that problem.

76ers Sense Melton Breakthrough Approaching

With Oubre out for the time being, the Sixers need someone in the starting lineup who can get hot from deep and stretch the defense. Melton did a good job in that role when given the chance last year. The quick turnaround allows him to ride the momentum and potentially break out of his cold spell.