BOSTON – For most of Monday night, the Boston Celtics were in “show no mercy” mode against the Philadelphia 76ers as they cruised to a 113-96 victory.
Boston prides itself on having the kind of roster depth that gives them the kind of flexibility to play all different styles and still be effective.
Philadelphia found that out the hard way on Monday.
Small-ball. Big fellas.
It didn’t matter.
Boston got whatever it wanted, whenever it wanted most of the night which led to a game that spiraled out of Philly’s control before the first quarter was over.
And as the game wore on, the Sixers seemed to just get worn more and more out by a Boston team that attacked in waves, seemingly at every position.
Here’s a look at the Stars, Studs and Duds from Monday night’s game.
STARS
Terry Rozier
Nobody made the most of their increased playing time more than Rozier. He finished with a double-double of 15 points and 10 rebounds along with dishing out six assists.
Marcus Smart
The 3-point shooting touch he has displayed throughout most of the preseason, was alive and well on Monday night. He had 12 points which included 2-for-3 from 3-point range. He also had six rebounds, two assists and two steals.
STUDS
Ben Simmons
One of the few consistently solid performers for Philly, he finished with 15 points and six rebounds, two assists and two blocked shots.
Semi Ojeleye
He came on late but made the most of his opportunity and scored 16 points which include knocking down four of his six 3-point attempts.
Markelle Fultz
He has shown himself to be all about scoring (and very little else at this point). And while his minutes were limited, it was clear that Fultz will eventually become a big-time scorer in this league. He finished with 12 points on 5-for-11 shooting but turned the ball over four times.
Abdel Nader
His defense still needs work, but there’s no mistaking Nader’s ability to score at this level. The former D-League (now G-League) rookie of the year last season, Nader had 15 points on 5-for-11 shooting.
Boston Celtics
Find the latest Boston Celtics news, highlights, analysis and more with NBC Sports Boston.
DUDS
Justin Anderson
He has the tools to be a very good 3-and-D guy for the Sixers. But tonight was not one of those nights, with Anderson missing scoring two points but missing seven of his eight shot attempts.
