Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid labeled “done” by Bill Simmons after loss to Boston Celtics in season opener.

Philadelphia 76ers coach Nick Nurse and star guard Tyrese Maxey evaluate Joel Embiid in his return against the Boston Celtics.

Joel Embiid struggled to find his rhythm in the Philadelphia 76ers' season-opening 117–116 win over the Boston Celtics, shooting just 1-of-9 from the field for four points.

The Philadelphia 76ers started the season with a 117-116 win over the Boston Celtics despite Paul George and Jared McCain not playing. Tyrese Maxey erupted for 40 points. Rookie VJ Edgecombe added a cool 34 for the highest scoring output in an NBA debut since Wilt Chamberlain in 1959. This is the good news.

The Philadelphia 76ers are looking to get back on the right track in the 2025-26 season following a miserable 24-58 year in which nothing went right for them. The Sixers were expected to contend for a title, but instead were ravaged by injuries and were unable to truly recover.

Boston raises the curtain on its 2025/26 NBA campaign at home to Philadelphia, hoping to continue an imperious streak of form against the 76ers. The Celtics beat their Atlantic Division rivals no fewer than three times last season and are back at TD Garden in the hopes of extending that run.

Expands Bank of America’s Philadelphia region presence through beloved franchises and leading music and entertainment venue.

Paul George injury struggles continue; 76ers forward remains out through weekend originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here. Outside of an impressive outing from the guard combination of Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe, injuries have continued to be a problem for the Philadelphia 76ers.