Celtics vs. 76ers: TV Schedule, Live Stream, Spread Info and More

With the 2012 NBA season’s finish line starting to become visible on the horizon, the pressure on teams like the Philadelphia 76ers and the Boston Celtics is intense.

Put them together, and put first place in the Atlantic Division on the line, and you have a powder keg that you won’t want to miss explode.

Hold on to your Eastern Conference; this is going to be a wild night!

Where: Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia, Pa.

When: Wednesday, March 7, at 7:00 p.m. ET

Watch: Not nationally televised

Live Stream: NBA League Pass

Listen: ESPN Radio

Betting Line: Covers

Over/Under: 177, Spread: Philadelphia -6

With one of the key pieces of the Sixers defense out (C Spencer Hawes), this will turn into more of an offensive showcase toward the end. I took the Boston Celtics to win the game outright, so this is an easy one: Take the over and Boston with the points.

Injuries: CBS Sports

Celtics

Jeff Green, PF: Out for the season

Jermaine O'Neal, C: Out until at least mid-March

Sixers

Spencer Hawes, C: Out until at least March 14 at Indiana

What They’re Saying

Philadelphia sports anchor John Anderson is reporting on Twitter about the seriousness of this matchup and its conference implications:

Boston Globe NBA writer Gary Washburn is reporting about the stamina issue that may plague the Celtics:

Key Matchup: Jrue Holiday vs. Rajon Rondo

While 76ers point guard Jrue Holiday won’t knock you out with his numbers, he is a defensive machine. Add in his ability to take the ball to the hoop if nothing is open, and you have a dangerous weapon in the Sixers backcourt.

As good as he is on the defensive end of the court, Holiday will be pushed to his limit by the superior play of Celtics PG Rajon Rondo. With almost 40 minutes played a game and 14 points with 10 assists as the norm, Boston runs through Rondo.

The winner of this battle at both ends of the floor will ultimately win the game for his team. I think Rondo walks away victorious.

Prediction: Celtics 96, Sixers 93

Check back for more on the National Basketball Association as it comes, and check out Bleacher Report’s NBA page to get your fill of all things basketball.

Follow @Donald_Wood