The Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers played each other to open the 2022–2023 NBA season on October 18th. By defeating the 76ers 126-117, the Celtics demonstrated why they were in the finals the previous season. Together, Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown scored 70 points, giving interim head coach Joe Mazzulla his first NBA triumph. The fact that Bill Russell, a renowned Celtics Reggie Lewis who passed away in July, was honored on opening night added to its significance. With Harden scoring 35 points, Joel Embiid scoring 26 points and 15 rebounds, and Tyrese Maxey scoring 21 points, the 76ers put up a valiant fight, but their 14 turnovers eventually lost them the game. This game had some controversy both during and after it. Since it was the first NBA game since June, naturally, all eyes were on this contest. People questioned if the new interim coach could guide the Celtics to success after last season's coach was suspended. This is also Harden's first full season with the 76ers. Drama occurred on the court during the game when Smart and Embiid got into a fight. Embiid attempted to break Smart's arm, but Smart was called for a foul for grabbing his leg. Both players fell to the ground. The next game of the season will be played in Miami versus the Boston Celtics.
