The Boston Celtics and Orlando Magic are set to face off in Game 4 of their first-round NBA Playoff series on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at the Kia Center in Orlando, Florida. With the Celtics leading the series 2-1, this game is pivotal for both teams as they battle for control in the Eastern Conference playoffs.
Game Details
- Date: Sunday, April 27, 2025
- Time: 7:00 PM ET
- Venue: Kia Center, Orlando, Florida
- Broadcast: TNT, NBA League Pass
Team Overview
Boston Celtics
- Regular Season Record: 61-21 (2nd seed in the Eastern Conference)
- Key Players:
- Jayson Tatum: The All-Star forward has been the Celtics’ offensive leader, averaging 26.5 points per game in the series despite dealing with a wrist injury. Tatum’s 36-point performance in Game 3 highlights his ability to deliver under pressure.
- Jaylen Brown: Brown, listed as questionable for Game 4 due to a knee injury, has been a key contributor, averaging 22.2 points per game this season. His availability could significantly impact Boston’s chances.
- Kristaps Porziņģis: The versatile big man has provided solid scoring and rim protection, averaging 19.5 points and 1.5 blocks per game.
- Strengths:
The Celtics excel in ball movement and perimeter shooting, ranking among the league’s best in assists and three-point percentage. Their defensive intensity has also been a hallmark, holding opponents to just 99.1 points per game in the postseason. - Challenges:
Injuries to key players like Jrue Holiday (hamstring strain) and Jaylen Brown could limit their depth. Additionally, turnovers have been a recurring issue, as seen in their Game 3 loss.
Orlando Magic
- Regular Season Record: 41-41 (7th seed in the Eastern Conference)
- Key Players:
- Franz Wagner: Wagner has been sensational, leading the Magic with 32 points, seven rebounds, and eight assists in their Game 3 victory. His ability to score and facilitate makes him a critical factor for Orlando.
- Paolo Banchero: The reigning Rookie of the Year has continued to shine, averaging 22.8 points and 7.4 rebounds over the last 10 games. Banchero’s physicality and scoring versatility are vital for the Magic’s success.
- Cole Anthony: Anthony’s defensive intensity and clutch plays have been instrumental, though his physicality has drawn criticism from Boston’s camp.
- Strengths:
The Magic thrive on their defensive prowess, leading the league in points allowed per game (105.5). Their ability to disrupt opponents’ rhythm and capitalize on turnovers has been key. - Challenges:
Orlando’s offense has struggled with consistency, averaging just 93.6 points per game in the series. They’ll need a more balanced scoring effort to keep pace with Boston’s firepower.
Key Matchups
- Jayson Tatum vs. Franz Wagner:
A battle of versatile forwards, Tatum’s scoring ability and Wagner’s all-around game will be central to their teams’ success. - Kristaps Porziņģis vs. Paolo Banchero:
Porziņģis’ rim protection will be tested by Banchero’s physicality and ability to attack the paint. - Perimeter Defense:
The Celtics’ three-point shooting will challenge Orlando’s ability to defend the arc effectively.
What’s at Stake
- For the Celtics: A win would give Boston a commanding 3-1 series lead, putting them one step closer to advancing to the Eastern Conference semifinals.
- For the Magic: A victory would even the series at 2-2, shifting momentum back to Orlando as they fight to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Game Odds
Boston Celtics – 7
Orlando Magic 195.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Saturday, April 26, 2025
