Celtics crush Magic to secure playoff series win 4-1
- The Boston Celtics secured their place in the Eastern Conference semifinals by defeating the Orlando Magic 120-89 in Game 5 of their playoff series.
- Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with an outstanding performance, achieving 35 points, 10 assists, and eight rebounds.
- This victory demonstrated the Celtics' capability to adapt their strategy and emerge as championship contenders, moving closer to defending their title.
In the 2025 NBA playoffs, the Boston Celtics faced off against the Orlando Magic in the first round. This series culminated in a decisive Game 5 where the Celtics emerged victorious with a score of 120-89, winning the series 4-1. Jayson Tatum played a pivotal role, contributing 35 points, 10 assists, and eight rebounds to the win, demonstrating his consistent scoring ability following an earlier wrist injury. The game effectively shifted in the third quarter when Magic star Paolo Banchero was sidelined due to foul trouble, allowing the Celtics to dominate. The Magic had hopes of extending the series, relying heavily on their dual scoring threats, Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. Throughout the playoffs, they had been performing exceptionally well, but they ultimately fell short against the Celtics' defense. Despite Banchero's efforts in scoring 19 points in this crucial game, the Magic struggled to find any sustained rhythm as they faced increasing pressure from the Celtics. Boston's strategy was multifaceted, relying on both inside play and defense, particularly as they adapted to the physical style of the Magic. The Celtics demonstrated their ability to win without depending solely on their stellar 3-point shooting, which has been their hallmark. Coach Joe Mazzulla emphasized the need for versatility within their play style, which proved effective against a Magic team that had shown they could defend against the long-range shot. With this victory, the Celtics advanced to the Eastern Conference semifinals, where they awaited their next opponent, either the New York Knicks or the Detroit Pistons. This win is notable as the Celtics continue their pursuit of back-to-back championships. Their effective gameplay and resilience, particularly in adjusting strategy, highlight the depth and skill present in their roster. This latest series win not only boosts the team's confidence moving forward but also showcases their determination to reclaim the title they won the previous season.