After a quiet showing in Game 1, V.J. Edgecombe delivered a historic bounce-back performance on Tuesday night, helping the Philadelphia 76ers level their first-round series against the Boston Celtics before heading home.
Edgecombe had just 13 points in the Game 1 blowout loss, but in Game 2 at TD Garden, the Rookie of the Year finalist took over and proved why he belongs on big stages. He finished with 30 points, 10 rebounds, two assists, and two steals in 35 minutes, shooting 60% from the field and from three-point range.
With the performance, Edgecombe became the youngest player in NBA history to record at least 30 points and 10 rebounds in a playoff game, and the first since Tim Duncan in 1998. He also posted the highest scoring total by a Sixers rookie in a playoff game since Andrew Toney against Boston in 1981.
Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images
Following the game, Edgecombe and Paul George, who has taken on a mentoring role for the rookie, appeared together at the post-game press conference, where the veteran learned about the milestone in real time.
“You did that?” George asked, smiling, as Edgecombe nodded. The two shared a quick two-finger handshake.
“I mean, he’s been impressive all season long,” George said. “When you think about how he started his first game here in this building, and then to put together a full season showcasing his abilities, he’s been far beyond what you expect from a rookie.”
George was even more surprised when he realized Edgecombe’s age.
“Are you 21 yet?” he asked. When Edgecombe replied that he is still 20, George added, “It’s just impressive, man.”
The Celtics jumped out to an early lead, but with George and Tyrese Maxey on the bench in the second quarter, Edgecombe took control. He dominated the glass with athletic offensive rebounds, played active defense, and knocked down his first three-pointers of the series, finishing the half with 20 points and seven rebounds to lead both teams.
When Boston threatened to rally back in the third quarter, Edgecombe responded with a pull-up three to push the lead back to six. He continued to attack aggressively, even with key teammates resting, eventually helping secure a much-needed win for Philly.
George added 19 points and four rebounds, while Maxey contributed 29 points and nine assists as Philadelphia evened the series at 1–1. The series now shifts to Philadelphia for Games 3 and 4 at the Xfinity Mobile Arena, with Game 3 set for Friday at 7 p.m. ET on Prime Video.
