Celtics Start Playoffs Against Magic on April 20

BOSTON, Mass. — The Boston Celtics are set to host the Orlando Magic in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference playoff series on Sunday, April 20, 2025, with tip-off scheduled for 3:30 p.m. EDT at TD Garden.

The defending NBA champions finished the regular season with an impressive 61-21 record and are looking to secure back-to-back titles for the first time since 1969. In contrast, the Magic ended their season at 41-41, entering the playoffs as the seventh seed.

Despite the Celtics’ dominant season performance, the Magic hold a slight edge in their three-game regular-season series, winning two of three matchups. However, the most recent encounter came when the Celtics had already secured their playoff position, leading to a different dynamic for both teams entering the postseason.

“We are focused on executing our game plan and playing as a cohesive unit,” said Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla. “Every game matters in the playoffs, and we have to approach this series with the intensity it deserves.”

Boston made history this season by setting the record for the most three-pointers attempted in a single season, while the Magic excelled defensively, allowing the fewest points in the league.

Key players to watch include Jayson Tatum for the Celtics, who ranks ninth among active players in playoff scoring, and Paolo Banchero, a standout rookie for the Magic. Both players are known for their scoring prowess and will be crucial to their respective teams’ success.

“We’re well aware of what’s at stake,” Banchero remarked. “Boston is a tough opponent, but we’ve also proven we can compete with them.”

The Celtics are favored to win, with a projected 86% chance of victory according to recent simulations that factor in both teams’ likely starters. The game will be broadcast on ABC, providing fans with various options to watch, including streaming services offering free trials.

As the East’s second seed, Boston faces high expectations from fans and analysts alike, looking to replicate their championship success from the previous season as they embark on their playoff journey.