The Philadelphia 76ers defeated the visiting Boston Celtics, 107-93, at Wells Fargo Center on Wednesday.

Philadelphia is expected to be the cream of the crop in the east and a double-digit victory over Boston in the opener is a great tone-setter. After trailing by five points after the first quarter, the Sixers won each of the final three quarters by at least five points apiece. Philly's defense was critical, holding Boston to 37 percent from the field and 27 percent from three-point range. Free-throw shooting also killed the Celtics, hitting just 20-of-34. The Sixers also out-rebounded the Celtics, 62-41 while out-blocking them 7-2.

The Celtics (0-1) got a double-double from Jayson Tatum, finishing with 21 points, 10 rebounds, two assists and two steals. Gordon Hayward accumulated 25 points, five rebounds and two assists. Kemba Walker had a debut to forget, scoring just 12 points on 4-of-18 from the field. Enes Kanter was the only other player with more than eight points, amassing 12 points, six boards and two assists.

The Sixers (1-0) were led by Ben Simmons, as he collected 24 points, eight rebounds and nine assists. Joel Embiid played just 23 minutes but still finished with 15 points, 13 rebounds, three assists and three blocks. Tobias Harris amassed 15 points, 15 rebounds, four assists and two steals while Josh Richardson accrued 17 points, six rebounds, two assists and two blocks.

On deck for the Celtics is their home opener against the Toronto Raptors on Friday. As for Philly, they travel to face the Detroit Pistons for their next fixture.