So that's why they say the NBA season doesn't officially start until Christmas.

Philadelphia defeated the defending champion Boston Celtics 118-114 as the Sixers played their first game with their projected starting lineup from the offseason.

Tyrese Maxey was sensational from start to finish, leading all scorers with 33 points, shooting 12-of-23 from the field along with 12 assists. He is the first Sixer to have at least 30 points and 10 assists on Christmas.

Despite taking a scary pre-game spill, Joel Embiid finished with 27 points and nine rebounds. He shot 8-of-15 from the floor.

Caleb Martin lived up to his Celtics' killer reputation, finishing with 23 points on 8-of-11 shooting. Paul George struggled with 12 points on 4-of-15 shooting but hit a couple big free throws to help ice the game.