Celtics Defeat 76ers 128-96, Take 3-1 Series Lead

Why it matters locally: The Boston Celtics' dominant win brings them within one game of advancing in the NBA playoffs, a significant event for sports fans across Massachusetts.

The Boston Celtics secured a 128-96 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 4 of their playoff series, extending their lead to 3-1. Joel Embiid returned to the 76ers' lineup for his first postseason appearance, recording 26 points and 10 rebounds. Embiid, who turned 32 last month, signed an extension with the 76ers through the 2028-2029 season. That contract includes a three-year, $192.9 million segment commencing next year. His career has featured a history of injuries. These include a stress fracture in his right foot, a torn meniscus, a concussion, a broken orbital bone, knee tendinitis, a torn finger ligament, another orbital fracture, a torn thumb ligament, a strained calf, a second meniscus injury, Bell's palsy, an oblique strain, and an emergency appendectomy, which had sidelined him prior to Game 4. Embiid is expected to play in Game 5. Game 5 is scheduled for April 28, with a 7 p.m. start time. ESPN will broadcast the game.