There was plenty of optimism surrounding the Philadelphia 76ers heading into their second-round matchup versus the Boston Celtics. Unfortunately, they were unable to get off on the right foot following a 117-101 loss.

There were a number of issues that factored into their defeat in Game 1. However, center Joel Embiid did not mince words when it came to discussing the defense on Monday night, according to Gary Washburn of the Boston Globe:

“I thought our defense was shi**y tonight.”

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Embiid's comments may be a bit blunt, however, they are true nonetheless. Philadelphia allowed Boston to score at least 30 points in all but one quarter. They also failed to contest on the 3-point shots as the Celtics went 17-of-35 from deep. It also did not help that the Sixers made just five of their 26 attempts from the 3-point line.

Despite being shorthanded with the absence of shooting guard Jaylen Brown, Boston still managed to step it up thanks to a trio of near 30-point games. Point guard Terry Rozier continued his stellar postseason play with 29 points, eight rebounds, and six assists. Meanwhile, center Al Horford was unstoppable the entire game after finishing with 26 points on a spectacular 10-of-12 shooting from the field.

Embiid enjoyed a spectacular game offensively, recording 31 points, 12 rebounds, and five assists. However, it was the first game that he failed to register at least one block since making his playoff debut in Game 3 versus the Miami Heat. That said, Embiid may need to be the one that sparks the effort on the defensive if the Sixers are to bounce back in Game 2.