Celtics Wrestle with Magic’s Physical Play in Playoff Series

ORLANDO, Fla. — The NBA playoffs are proving to be a physical battleground as the seventh-seeded Magic face off against the second-seeded Celtics. In Game 3 of their first-round series on Friday, the Celtics endured significant injuries and aggressive play from the Magic, resulting in a gritty contest that many described as more brawl than basketball.

During the first two games, notable injuries struck the Celtics. Superstar Jayson Tatum was sidelined in Game 1 after a hard foul from Orlando. In Game 2, center Kristaps Porzingis suffered a forehead laceration requiring stitches. The injuries continued on Friday as Celtics forward Jaylen Brown dislocated his left index finger after being fouled by Cole Anthony.

Brown spoke candidly about the escalating tension, stating, ‘It’s starting to feel like it’s not even basketball… If we want to fight, we can do that. We can fight to see who goes to the second round.’ His comments underscore the growing frustration within Boston‘s camp regarding officiating and the physical nature of Orlando’s play.

Despite his injury, Brown played a vital role, finishing with 19 points. He insisted, ‘I got nine more fingers, so I’m alright.’ However, the Celtics’ ability to maintain composure against Orlando’s aggressive tactics will be essential moving forward.

Meanwhile, Tatum returned to the lineup, contributing a game-high 36 points while dealing with his own wrist injury from earlier in the playoffs. ‘Just dealing with pain tolerance… I felt like I could try to go out there and play,’ he stated during a post-game interview.

Head Coach Joe Mazzulla acknowledged the toggling physical play, saying, ‘We have to be better at protecting ourselves and controlling our emotions on the court.’ The Celtics have already recorded their season high in turnovers, with 21 committed against the Magic, leading to 26 points for Orlando.

The series is now tied 1-1, with Game 4 scheduled for Sunday in Orlando. The Celtics feel the pressure of returning to form amidst the series’ rough play, knowing that their playoff fate hangs in the balance.

‘It is what it is, but we have to be ready for Game 4,’ Brown added, reflecting on the need for Boston to adjust their game strategy and tactics against Orlando’s relentless approach.