Key Takeaways: Kelly Olynyk Powers Boston Celtics Past Sixers

Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

The Boston Celtics knocked off the lowly Philadelphia 76ers Monday night, 101-85. Big man Kelly Olynyk dropped a career-high 30 points to spark the slumping Celtics. In victory, they snapped a three-game losing skid and improved to 8-14 on the season.

Avery Bradley aided a depleted backcourt upon returning from his one-game layoff. Boston’s bench came through as well, picking up the slack with Marcus Smart and Marcus Thornton both out of the lineup.

Even though the Sixers are now a woeful 2-22 on the season, a win is a win for a young Celtics squad that is still seeking an identity and consistency. They did exactly what was expected of them in routing an offensively challenged Sixers team.

Boston outscored the Sixers on the fast break, 25-1. They led by as many as 26 in the game and by 19 at the half. Rajon Rondo and Jared Sullinger both struggled offensively as the duo tallied just five points apiece. Fortunately Boston’s role players stepped up to earn a much need win.

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Here are my biggest takeaways from the game:

1. Olynyk displays his true potential

The second-year center not only shot the lights out of the gym, but he hit the glass as well. Olynyk yanked down nine boards to go along with his 30 points. He scored 18 points in the first half and finished the game shooting 12-of-17 from the floor, including a 3-of-5 mark from beyond the arc. Brad Stevens may have to re-introduce Olynyk to the starting five if he can build upon this breakout effort.

2. Run, Run, Run

Tommy Heinsohn constantly badgers the Celtics for slowing the pace of the game down when they’re built to push the tempo. Outscoring the Sixers 25-1 on the break illustrates the success the Celtics can have when they exhibit willingness to run.

3. Bradley shaky at times in return

The two-guard missed Friday’s game due to an illness. He did score a big 15 points for the Celtics in the win, but his stroke was way off the mark. Bradley finished with 6-of-20 shooting and a dismal 1-of-11 from deep.