The Boston Celtics are set to face the Orlando Magic in Game 3 of their first-round playoff series on April 26, 2025. The Celtics have a strong 2-0 lead after winning the first two games, but now that the series is moving to Orlando, the Magic will aim to use their home-court advantage at Kia Center to get back in the game.
Boston has been on fire this season, landing near the top of the Eastern Conference with their solid offense and top-notch defense. Conversely, the Magic have surprised everyone by making the playoffs, thanks to their young stars like Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero. With so much at stake for Orlando, get ready for an intense showdown between these two squads.
Boston Celtics
The Celtics have been solid on both sides of the court, holding a 39-13 record against teams in the Eastern Conference. Their defense has played a big role, keeping opponents to just 99.9 points per game in their last ten games.
Jaylen Brown has been killing it on the court, putting up 22.2 points and grabbing 5.8 rebounds each game. His skills in stepping up in crucial moments makes him a must-watch player. Brown’s mix of scoring, athletic skills, and defensive flexibility has played a huge role in Boston’s playoff victories.
Kristaps Porzingis really made his mark inside, scoring 20 points and grabbing 10 rebounds in Game 2. His skill to spread the floor and defend the rim gives Boston a cool edge against Orlando’s front line.
Derrick White has become one of the Celtics’ go-to two-way players, hitting about 3.1 three-pointers per game lately. His strong defense, scoring skills, and playmaking skills have helped Boston keep up its impressive performance.
Since Jayson Tatum is doubtful for Game 3 because of a small injury, Brown and Porzingis will need to step up offensively. Tatum not playing might make the game tighter, but Boston’s depth is still a big advantage.
Orlando Magic
The Magic have been tough to beat even when they’re behind in the series. Their defense is doing a solid job, keeping rivals to just 102.1 points a game. With their fans cheering them on, Orlando is ready to change their strategy and clamp down on Boston’s three-point shots to boost their chances of winning.
Franz Wagner is the Orlando’s go-to scorer, putting up an average of 24.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4.7 assists each game. His ability to drive to the basket, hitting long-range shots, and playing tough defense makes him a key player for the Magic.
Paolo Banchero really showed up in the playoffs, putting up 32 points, grabbing nine rebounds, and dishing out seven assists in Game 2. His toughness, top-notch scoring skills, and increasing confidence are going to be key if Orlando wants to snag their first win of the series.
Wendell Carter Jr. played really well last game, scoring 16 points and grabbing eight rebounds. His skills in defense and rebounding will be crucial to handle the Celtics’ height advantage.
Orlando really needs more from its role players, especially Cole Anthony and Jalen Suggs. If they can step up with some extra points and solid defense, the Magic could turn things around.
Boston has shown they’re the better team by winning the first two games. But with Tatum possibly sidelined, Orlando has a chance to make things interesting. The Magic need to hit the ground running, with Wagner and Banchero leading the charge right from the start.
Get ready for a tough, low-scoring matchup, just like the first two games. The Magic will probably stay in it, but Boston’s depth, defense, and experience should help them come out on top. Orlando might have some standout moments, but the Celtics are just too solid and focused to lose control of the game.
Sports Betting Ace’s Final Score Prediction: Boston Celtics 108 – Orlando Magic 101
Will the Magic get a boost from their fans and turn the series around, or will the Celtics keep pushing forward to the next round? With the pressure on, Game 3 is set to be an exciting matchup.