Orlando Magic VS Boston Celtics – Game 2 NBA Playoffs – Live Stream
Game 2 Preview – Orlando Magic vs. Boston Celtics | 2025 NBA Playoffs Round 1
Get ready for a crucial Game 2 as the Boston Celtics host the Orlando Magic in TD Garden, looking to build on their Game 1 win and protect home court in this high-stakes Eastern Conference first-round matchup. Tip-off is set for Wednesday, April 23rd at 7:00 PM ET, and both teams are coming in with very different mindsets after a telling Game 1.
Game 1 Recap: Celtics Strike First
Boston came out with playoff intensity and handled business in Game 1, winning 107-95 behind a well-balanced attack led by Jayson Tatum’s 28 points and Derrick White’s timely three-pointers. The Celtics defense locked in, forcing 14 Magic turnovers and holding Orlando to just 42% shooting from the field. Jrue Holiday’s perimeter defense was a problem for the young Magic guards all night.
Meanwhile, Orlando looked shaky in their first playoff appearance in over three years. Paolo Banchero led the way with 22 points and 8 boards, but Franz Wagner struggled with foul trouble and Cole Anthony shot just 3-of-12 from the field. The Magic looked overwhelmed by Boston’s physicality and playoff experience.
Celtics Game Plan: Keep Applying Pressure
The Celtics are known for their elite two-way play, and it showed in Game 1. Expect Joe Mazzulla’s squad to continue switching defensively, making life difficult for Orlando’s young core. Boston also dominated from beyond the arc, shooting 41% on threes compared to Orlando’s 29%. If they keep spacing the floor and forcing the Magic into tough shots, they’ll be in great shape to go up 2-0.
Jrue Holiday and Derrick White’s ability to contain dribble penetration will again be key. And don’t sleep on Al Horford’s veteran presence—his switchability and high IQ plays don’t show up on the stat sheet but they impact every possession.
Magic Adjustments: Banchero Needs Help
Orlando has to settle down and control the tempo better in Game 2. Look for head coach Jamahl Mosley to make adjustments, especially in terms of ball movement and shot selection. The Magic need more from Franz Wagner and Jalen Suggs offensively—both combined for just 18 points in Game 1.
Orlando also needs to get back to what worked for them late in the season: active hands, high defensive energy, and transition offense. If they can force Boston into some early turnovers and get easy buckets, it’ll relieve the pressure off their half-court sets. Expect more minutes for Markelle Fultz and Wendell Carter Jr., especially if the Celtics go small.
Key Matchup: Paolo Banchero vs. Jayson Tatum
This is the future vs. the now. Banchero is already a rising star, but this series is his first true playoff test. Meanwhile, Tatum has been here before—deep playoff runs, clutch moments, and defensive responsibilities. Game 1 went to Tatum. Game 2? It’s on Paolo to respond.
X-Factors
For Boston: Payton Pritchard. He hit two big threes in Game 1 and provides spark off the bench. If he gets hot again, that’s a major boost.
For Orlando: Jonathan Isaac. His length could disrupt Boston’s wings, but he needs to stay out of foul trouble and contribute offensively.
Prediction
Boston has been dominant at home all season, and they looked locked in on both ends in Game 1. Orlando will be better—but not enough to steal one in TD Garden. Expect the Celtics to go up 2-0 before the series heads to Orlando.
Final Score Prediction: Celtics 110, Magic 98
Don’t miss Game 2 – it’s win-or-go-home urgency for Orlando and a chance to take command for Boston. Who you got? Drop your score predictions below and let’s talk hoops!
