Celtics' Trip To Philadelphia Brings Unexpected LeBron James Storyline
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The Boston Celtics have enjoyed an impressive opening to the 2026-27 season, but Tuesday's visit to Philadelphia presents one of their most intriguing early tests.
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Boston enters the game with an 8-2 record after defeating Milwaukee 117-97 on Sunday. Philadelphia has opened 9-2, giving the contest significance beyond the traditional rivalry between the Celtics and 76ers.
The most unusual storyline involves LeBron James, who is now playing for Philadelphia after spending years as one of Boston's most recognizable opponents.
For Celtics fans, seeing James in a 76ers uniform adds another chapter to a rivalry that has already featured numerous memorable encounters.
Philadelphia Has Started Strong
The 76ers improved to 9-2 with a 127-121 victory over Chicago, their strongest start since the 2000-01 season.
LeBron James is on track to pass Jason Kidd for third all time in assists this week. He needs just 16 dimes to do it and the Sixers play three times between now and Sunday. @TheAthleticNBA https://t.co/lcGZqLRzoK
— Joe Vardon (@joevardon) November 9, 2026
Jaylen Brown scored 29 points in that victory, while James contributed 22 points, five rebounds and five assists.
James' performance represented his highest scoring total with Philadelphia to that point, providing another indication of how the veteran superstar is adjusting to his new situation.
The 76ers have built early momentum around a roster that combines established talent with significant experience.
Celtics Have Found Their Own Formula
Boston has won three consecutive games, including two victories over Milwaukee within five days.
Paul George scored 27 points against the Bucks on Sunday, while Jayson Tatum added 21 points and six assists. The Celtics recovered from an early 20-6 deficit and controlled the game after an 18-0 run spanning the first-quarter break.
Boston's depth also played an important role, allowing Tatum to rest during the fourth quarter of a comfortable victory.
That balance could become particularly valuable against a Philadelphia team with multiple established scorers.
MORE: How to Watch Celtics vs. 76ers Tonight: Channel, Live Stream & Start Time for NBA Game
Familiar Rivalry, Different Cast
Boston and Philadelphia have spent decades competing for position in the Eastern Conference, but this season's personnel adds new dimensions to their meetings.
James has a lengthy postseason history against the Celtics, while Brown's presence in Philadelphia gives the rivalry another recognizable name.
Tuesday's game will not determine the conference standings, but it provides an early opportunity to evaluate how both teams perform against strong opposition.
For Boston, the challenge is straightforward: maintain the consistency that produced an 8-2 start while handling a Philadelphia roster capable of generating offense from several different positions.
The jerseys and supporting casts have changed, but the stakes surrounding Celtics-76ers games remain familiar.