Celtics Seek Redemption Against Injury-Hit Magic in NBA Showdown

BOSTON — The Boston Celtics will face the Orlando Magic on Friday night at TD Garden, seeking revenge after a narrow 108-104 loss in their first meeting on Dec. 23. The Celtics, currently 6-4 in their last 10 games, are looking to rebound from a disappointing 110-97 defeat against the Toronto Raptors earlier this week.

The Magic, despite being plagued by injuries to key players like Franz Wagner, Jalen Suggs, and Gary Harris, have managed to stay competitive in the Eastern Conference playoff race. Paolo Banchero, their star forward, recently returned from a two-month absence due to an oblique strain and has been a bright spot, averaging 25.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in his first three games back.

Boston enters the game with a clean bill of health, while Orlando will be without several rotation players, including Wagner, Suggs, and Goga Bitadze, who remains in concussion protocol. “Injury Report for tomorrow vs. Orlando: No injuries to report,” the Celtics confirmed on their official Twitter account.

One of the key matchups to watch will be between Banchero and Celtics forward Jayson Tatum. Banchero, known for his aggressive playstyle, will face Tatum for the first time this season. Meanwhile, Wendell Carter Jr. is expected to step up for Orlando in Bitadze’s absence, providing a challenge for Boston’s Kristaps Porzingis in the paint.

Orlando’s defense, ranked second in the league, has been a cornerstone of their success this season. They force an average of 17 turnovers per game, the third-best mark in the NBA. “The Celtics have to be ready for active hands on any kind of drive to the paint,” said analyst Brett James.

Boston’s shooting struggles have been a concern, particularly from beyond the arc. Since Jan. 1, the team ranks 21st in efficiency on open 3-point attempts, despite generating the second-most such opportunities. Against Orlando’s stingy defense, converting those chances will be critical.

The game tips off at 7:00 PM ET, with both teams aiming to solidify their playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference.