The Philadelphia 76ers already face a tough task when traveling to Boston to take on the Celtics in Round 2 of the NBA Playoffs. Now, they will likely be forced to attempt the upset without the services of MVP-favorite Joel Embiid. The latest Joel Embiid injury report came as bad news for Sixers fans, as the big man is expected to be listed as doubtful for Monday’s Game 1. The latest 76ers-Celtics betting line changed after the announcement.
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76ers-Celtics Game 1 Betting Line After Joel Embiid Injury News
Per BetMGM, the Celtics are now a heavy 9.5-point favorite over the 76ers in Game 1. Boston opened as a 6.5-point favorite prior to the latest Joel Embiid injury news. Check out the full 76ers-Celtics betting line below:
- Spread: Celtics -9.5 (-105), 76ers +9.5 (-115)
- Moneyline: Celtics -400, 76ers +310
- Total: Over 213.5 (-115), Under 215.5 (-105)
The betting line shift occurred after 76ers head coach Doc Rivers met with the media on Saturday and admitted that Embiid would probably be doubtful for Monday’s first game of the series.
“There is no latest,” Rivers said, per Real GM. “Obviously, the doctors looked at him, and he didn’t do anything today. I’ll say this, but if I was a betting man, I would probably say doubtful for at least Game 1. But we’ll see.”
While Rivers may not be a “betting man” many of the rest of us are, and the comments the head coach made about his best player has direct betting impact for Game 1 and beyond.
Embiid suffered an LCL sprain in the first round series against the Brooklyn Nets and sat out for the last game of the sweep. Because they were able to make quick work of the nets, Embiid has had the luxury of resting his knee for over a week now. But he is still not ready to get back on the court, and Rivers’ comments don’t sound like he’ll be cleared to return in the immediate future.
Based on the latest 76ers-Celtics betting line, Joel Embiid will likely need to be on the court for Philly to have any chance of knocking off their Eastern Conference rival.
Bettors looking for the best value throughout the NBA Playoffs should take a look at all of OddsShopper tools, including the Parlay Builder!
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