Celtics, Sixers square off in Philly

Philadelphia has dropped five of its last eight games and had a two-game winning streak stopped with Wednesday’s 111-108 setback to the Washington Wizards at the Verizon Center.

Andre Iguodala notched 26 points and 15 boards for Philadelphia, which is 10-5 over its last 15 games and 4 1/2 games off a playoff spot. Samuel Dalembert posted 24 points and nine boards, while Andre Miller notched 16 points and seven assists in the losing cause.

The Sixers are 18-17 as the host this season, In injury news for Philly, guard Willie Green (knee) is questionable for Friday’s game and forward Joe Smith (personal) is probable.

Meanwhile, the Celtics have won two straight after a three-game slide and recorded a 105-96 double-overtime victory versus the Orlando Magic on Wednesday at TD Banknorth Arena.

Paul Pierce shook off swelling in his left elbow and finished with 32 points, seven rebounds and five assists in the win. Al Jefferson totaled 23 points and 13 rebounds, while Delonte West added 17 points for Boston, which snapped a three-game losing streak to Orlando.

Boston, the worst team in the East, will hit the road tonight where it is 11-24 in 2006-07.

Friday’s game between Philadelphia and Boston is the third of four meetings this season. The season series is split so far and will later resume on April 11 at TD Banknorth Garden.

Boston has won three of four and five of the last seven meetings. It has also won two straight and three of its last four trips to Philadelphia.