In one of the most intense battles in Eastern Conference Finals history, the Philadelphia 76ers traveled to Boston Garden on May 23, 1982, with everything on the line. After jumping out to a 3-1 series lead, the Sixers watched as the Boston Celtics, fueled by their championship pedigree, clawed back to force a decisive Game 7.
But in front of a hostile crowd, Philadelphia refused to fold, delivering a 120-106 victory to advance to the NBA Finals—setting up a showdown with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Despite watching their beloved team fall short, Celtics fans didn’t direct their frustration toward Philadelphia. Instead, with time winding down, a loud and unified chant filled the Garden:
“Beat L.A.! Beat L.A.!”
The Celtics faithful, despite suffering elimination, shifted their focus to their long-time Western Conference rivals. Rather than dwelling on Boston’s loss, the crowd sent a message to the Sixers—take down the Lakers and deny them another championship.
Though Boston and L.A. hadn’t met in the Finals since 1969, the rivalry remained fierce, and Celtics fans wanted anyone but the Lakers to lift the trophy.
Leading the charge for Philadelphia was none other than Julius “Dr. J” Erving, who finished with 29 points and 5 rebounds, solidifying his status as the heart of the Sixers.
Andrew Toney, known as “The Boston Strangler” for his ability to torment the Celtics, dropped 34 points, silencing Boston’s defensive efforts. Maurice Cheeks and Bobby Jones contributed heavily on both ends, ensuring that Philadelphia wouldn’t let another late-series collapse define their season.
Despite Boston’s plea, Philadelphia’s championship hopes were short-lived. They faced Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and the Lakers, ultimately falling in six games.
For the 76ers, it was another heartbreaking Finals loss—one of three they suffered at the hands of Los Angeles between 1980 and 1982. However, redemption would come just one year later, when Philadelphia swept the Lakers in 1983 to finally claim the title.
The 1982 Eastern Conference Finals remains one of the most compelling postseason battles in NBA history. The resilience of the Celtics, the dominance of the 76ers, and the unforgettable “Beat L.A.” chant make it a series that will never be forgotten.
