In a battle between two Atlantic Division rivals, the Boston Celtics (2-2) will take on the Philadelphia 76ers (2-2) in a Friday night NBA matchup. Despite the game being a rematch of the 2011-2012 Eastern Conference Semifinals, both basketball clubs have a lot at stake with them both being tied for second behind the Knicks.

The Sixers have been without the services of their newly acquired center Andrew Bynum (sore knee) and shooting guard Jason Richardson (ankle sprain). After dropping two straight games to the surging New York Knicks, Philadelphia pulled out a 77-62 victory against the New Orleans Hornets.

Sixers coach Doug Collins spoke to the Philadelphia Inquirer about the impact that the loss of Richardson has on the team's bench.

"It's a house of cards. I wanted the bench to be such a strength, but then you have to lose part of that to get a starter. We miss [Richardson]. That's a big loss."

The Celtics are currently in the midst of a two-game winning streak after losing their first two matchups to Miami and Milwaukee. Boston is coming off back-to-back victories against the Washington Wizards in a home-and-home, and will look to exploit the Sixers' decreased depth.

A key factor that could drastically affect the on the court outcome of the game will be the point guard battle that will take place between Jrue Holiday versus Rajon Rondo. With the superior presence that both players will undoubtedly bring to the matchup, their performances could serve to vastly change the game's results. Holiday has proved himself immensely averaging 18 ppg along with 9.5 assists. However, Rondo is off to a career year with 16 ppg and 12.5 assists.

CLICK HERE to watch the Boston Celtics face off against the Philadelphia 76ers via free live stream. Coverage of the game is set to begin at 7:30 p.m. ET on Friday, Nov.9.

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