Celtics Face Magic in Crucial Matchup on April 9, 2025

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Boston Celtics, boasting a 58-20 record, travel to the Kia Center on April 9, 2025, to face the Orlando Magic, who sit at 38-40. This matchup follows Boston’s dominant 124-90 victory over the Washington Wizards, reaffirming their status as one of the top contenders in the NBA.

In their last game, the Celtics showcased a strong all-around performance. Boston achieved a 49% field goal percentage, sinking 48 of 98 attempts and hitting 24 of 52 from beyond the arc. They also capitalized at the free-throw line, successfully converting 4 of 6 shots. Additionally, the Celtics controlled the boards with 62 rebounds, including 25 offensive boards, and dished out 33 assists while holding the Wizards to 40.7% shooting.

Payton Pritchard played a pivotal role in Boston’s latest win, scoring 20 points on 8 of 18 shooting, along with 7 assists and 6 rebounds. As the Celtics prepare for their matchup against the Magic, they are focused on maintaining their momentum.

Despite their solid record, Boston’s turnovers have been a concern this season. Averaging 11.8 turnovers per game, they will need to tighten their ball security against an Orlando squad that forces an impressive 16.1 turnovers per game, ranking second in the league in this category.

Defensively, the Celtics have excelled, allowing just 107.6 points per game and maintaining a shooting percentage defense of 45.2%. They are 3rd in the league for points per game allowed, which puts pressure on opposing offenses to find success against their disciplined defensive unit. Boston has also drawn an average of 17.7 personal fouls, which might play a key role against Orlando’s free-throw efficiency of 77.6%.

Orlando enters this matchup fresh off a 109-97 win against the Wizards, where Paolo Banchero was instrumental, scoring 33 points and grabbing 18 rebounds. Banchero’s strong performance has made him a player to watch, as he averages an impressive 26.0 points per game in the season, alongside 7.5 rebounds and 4.8 assists.

The Magic’s offensive stats highlight some vulnerabilities; they rank 27th in field goal percentage at 44.3% and last in assists with 22.9 per game. However, their defense has been solid, allowing an average of just 105.6 points, leading the league in points allowed. They will need this defensive prowess to compete against Boston’s high-powered offense.

Tonight’s game may revolve around the performances from key players like Banchero and Pritchard. For Boston to secure a win, they must capitalize on their rebounding advantage and reduce turnovers. Conversely, if Orlando can disrupt their momentum, they may be able to pull off an upset and improve their playoff positioning.

As the season winds down, every game matters, especially for the Magic as they strive for a playoff berth. The Celtics will look to cement their place at the top of the Eastern Conference while proving their championship credentials against a competitive Orlando squad.