The Celtics currently sit atop the Eastern Conference while Philadelphia are fighting for their first playoff berth since 2012.
And much of Boston’s success this year has been down to their rigid defence, despite losing players such as Avery Bradley and Jae Crowder in the summer.
They lead the league in opponents Points per game, limiting teams to just 97.6 throughout the season.
And they have improved that further in their last three matches, with sides averaging just 85.7 points against them, including keeping the Cleveland Cavaliers to just 88 points.
The 76ers have a dynamic duo in Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid who on any given night can each go for 25-plus points.
And Irving insists the Celtics can’t allow Simmons to take control.
“Those guys are so young and active and do such a great job, led by Ben Simmons who does a great job at getting everybody involved and playing at unbelievable paces,” Irving said.
“We have to play with our unique intensity on the defensive end, make it uncomfortable and really give the fans a show and bring the Celtic pride over here.”
Irving was involved in one of the most shocking trades of the summer when he requested to leave the Cleveland Cavaliers and opting to join the Celtics.
And while he was aware of the history and nostalgia around Boston’s famous basketball franchise, he insists he has an even greater understanding
“It’s definitely the expectations of wearing the green. You kind of have to be in the uniform or be a fan of the organisation to understand what Celtic pride really stands for,” Irving added.
“You see some of the players who have come through the organisation and what they talk about, you get a sense of it by the way they talk.
“Being out there and representing that Boston across your chest, it means a lot.”