The Boston Celtics were on the cusp of taking a 3-1 lead in their series against the Philadelphia 76ers the other night.
But then the heroics of James Harden dashed their dreams and the series is currently tied 2-2 as it heads back to Boston.
Speaking about the team’s morale and focus before Tuesday’s Game 5, Sixth Man of the Year Malcolm Brogdon said that they are adamant about winning.
Saying they’re “always encouraged,” Brogdon added that Boston has a “desperation mindset” for the big game.
He added, “We have to have this one.”
Malcolm Brogdon on Game 5: "It's a desperation mindset for us tonight. We have to have this one." pic.twitter.com/OwIov4NGwq
— Celtics on NBC Sports Boston (@NBCSCeltics) May 9, 2023
The Celtics’ success in Game 5 will depend on many things, most notably if they are able to contain Harden.
They have lost every time Harden has gotten hot and they haven’t figured out a way to slow him down when he goes into overdrive.
Obviously, the Sixers are hoping that Harden will perform in Game 5 as he did in Game 4.
If he does, the Celtics need a response to him.
They will also need to remain consistent on all sides of the floor.
Additionally, Jayson Tatum will need to show up and play hard for all 48 minutes.
In Game 4, he only scored 2 points in the first half of the game.
In fact, only Jaylen Brown and Brogdon had double-digits for the Celtics before halftime.
The 76ers are proving to be a very difficult opponent for the Celtics so the desperation mindset that Brogdon spoke of is smart.
It could be their key to taking a series lead.
They do not want to lose this next game at home before returning to Philadelphia for Game 6.
The Celtics will need to play as if their backs are against the wall.
NEXT: Former NBA Player Criticizes The Celtics' Coaching In Playoffs
