The Boston Celtics defeated the Philadelphia 76ers, 106-99, at TD Garden on Wednesday night.

The Celtics (39-16) came into the contest as modest home favorites against one of their toughest challenges, and they appeared up to the challenge early. Boston forged a 30-27 lead through one and managed to add another point to its advantage prior to halftime. The 76ers (34-19) then fell behind by three more points during the third quarter, but Philadelphia managed to pull within three with just under four minutes left before the hosts finished on an 8-4 run over the final 3:16 to seal the victory.

Joel Embiid led the 76ers with 28 points, adding seven rebounds, one assist, two steals and one block. James Harden generated a 26-point, 11-assist double-double that included three rebounds, one steal and one block. De'Anthony Melton furnished 12 points, four rebounds, three assists and one steal.

Derrick White and Malcolm Brogdon co-led the Celtics with matching 19-point, three-assist tallies and added six and five rebounds, respectively. Grant Williams and Blake Griffin produced 15 points apiece, with Williams also posting eight boards, five assists and one steal. Sam Hauser supplied 14 points and eight boards. Jayson Tatum registered 12 points, nine rebounds, one steal and one block.

The 76ers return home to host the New York Knicks on Friday night, while the Celtics remain home and host the Charlotte Hornets on Friday night.