Magic Overcome Celtics 123-110 in NBA Cup
Franz Wagner led the Orlando Magic with 27 points, one of seven players on his team to reach double digits, as the Boston Celtics struggled to keep pace late in the game.
Background of the Rivalry
Last spring, the Celtics and Magic clashed in a tough first-round playoff series marked by Orlando's physical play, which Boston frequently noted. Despite Boston's five-game series win, the intensity seemed to take a toll on the Celtics, who then lost to the Knicks in the subsequent round.
Team Changes Since Last Season
- The Magic added Desmond Bane to address offensive struggles.
- The Celtics have shifted to a more defensive, scrappy underdog role.
Game Highlights
In a rematch during the NBA Cup on Friday night, the Magic caught fire from beyond the arc, hitting a season-best 17 of 36 three-point attempts. Boston made a strong comeback early in the fourth quarter after trailing by 16 points but faltered in the final minutes.
Orlando closed the game with a dominant 39-point fourth quarter to secure the 123-110 victory.
Key Player Performances
- Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 32 points and nine rebounds.
- Payton Pritchard contributed 27 points for Boston.
- Franz Wagner led the Magic with 27 points.
"I didn’t feel like we got out-physicaled," said Payton Pritchard.
Summary: The Orlando Magic's balanced offense and sharp three-point shooting propelled them past the Celtics, who struggled down the stretch despite strong efforts from Brown and Pritchard.
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