Orlando MagicOpen full analysis
Boston CelticsOpen full analysis
The Boston Celtics defeated the Orlando Magic 113–108 on April 12 at TD Garden in a defensive battle that finished well below the Vegas total of 222.5. B. Scheierman led Boston with 30 points while L. Garza added 27, as the Celtics shot 41.4% from the field and made 19 three-pointers to control the pace. Orlando countered with balanced scoring from P. Banchero and J. Suggs, each with 23 points, but the Magic shot just 39.6% and managed only 12 three-pointers despite out-rebounding Boston 50–46. The decisive second quarter saw Boston extend its lead to double digits, posting 32 points to Orlando's 32, then the Celtics clamped down defensively in the third quarter, holding the Magic to just 20 points while scoring 42 themselves—a 22-point swing that proved insurmountable. Boston's defensive rating of 98.9 versus Orlando's 106.9 underscored the home team's rim protection and perimeter discipline. Boston's turnover management at 17 compared to Orlando's 19 also provided marginal but meaningful separation. The victory solidifies Boston's playoff positioning heading into the final stretch of the season.
