Can the Orlando Magic Take the Boston Celtics to the Brink in the NBA Playoffs?
The Boston Celtics will face the Orlando Magic in Game 4 of their Eastern Conference First Round playoff series. This pivotal matchup is set for Sunday, April 27th, 2025. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 PM Eastern Time at the Kia Center in Orlando, Florida. The game will have national television coverage on TNT.
After three hard-fought games, the Celtics currently hold a 2-1 series lead. Boston took care of business in the first two games at TD Garden, showcasing their offensive firepower and defensive tenacity. However, the young and determined Orlando Magic responded emphatically in Game 3 on their home court. They secured a close 95-93 victory to get back into the series. This win demonstrated Orlando’s resilience and the impact of their home crowd.
Storylines to Watch
- Momentum Shift: Can the Magic carry the momentum from their Game 3 win into this crucial Game 4? A victory would tie the series at 2-2. This would swing the advantage back in their favor as the series returns to Boston. Conversely, a Celtics win would put them on the brink of advancing to the next round.
- Jrue Holiday‘s Absence: The Celtics were without key guard Jrue Holiday in Game 3 due to a right hamstring strain. He has already been ruled out for Game 4. Holiday’s defensive prowess and playmaking were noticeably missed, particularly in containing Orlando’s dynamic backcourt. The Celtics will need other players to step up to fill this void.
- Jaylen Brown‘s Status: Adding to the Celtics’ injury concerns, Jaylen Brown is questionable for Game 4. He has a right knee posterior impingement. Brown has been a vital scorer and playmaker for Boston throughout the series. His potential absence or limited mobility would be a significant blow to their chances.
- Franz Wagner‘s Ascent: Franz Wagner is Orlando’s standout performer in the series. He achieved an impressive 32-point, 7-rebound, and 8-assist performance in Game 3. He has shown an ability to score in various ways. He actively seeks out favorable matchups, particularly against Kristaps Porzingis. His continued aggressive play will be crucial for the Magic.
- Paolo Banchero‘s Impact: The Magic’s young star, Paolo Banchero, has been a consistent force. He is averaging significant points, rebounds, and assists in the series. His ability to score will be crucial. Creating opportunities for his teammates is important. These skills are needed if the Magic aim to overcome the Celtics’ defense.
- Physicality of the Series: The series is known for its physicality. Both teams play tough and contest every possession. Some Celtics players have even voiced concerns about the Magic’s aggressive style of play. The officiating will continue to be a key factor. How the teams adapt to the physical nature of the games will also be crucial.
- Three-Point Shooting: The Celtics are typically a strong three-point shooting team. They struggled in Game 3, converting only 9 of 27 attempts. The Magic’s defense has done a solid job of contesting their shots. Boston will need to regain their shooting touch to stretch Orlando’s defense. Conversely, the Magic’s three-point shooting has been streaky, and consistency from beyond the arc would significantly boost their offensive output.
- Turnovers and Transition: Turnovers were a significant factor in Game 3. The Magic forced 21 Celtics turnovers. They converted these into 26 points, which included 18 fast-break points. Orlando excels at generating turnovers. They capitalize in transition. This ability is a key element of their game plan. It’s especially important against a potent offensive team like Boston.
Updated Betting Odds (as of April 27th, 2025)
Please note that betting odds can fluctuate, so these should be considered as a snapshot in time.
- Spread: Boston Celtics -7.5 (-107), Orlando Magic +7.5 (-104)
- Moneyline: Boston Celtics -329, Orlando Magic +280
- Total (Over/Under): 199 points (-110/-102)
Odds provided by Bet105; other sportsbooks may have slightly different lines.
The odds indicate that the Boston Celtics are solid favorites to win Game 4. Despite playing on the road and potentially being shorthanded due to injuries. The 7 to 7.5-point spread suggests that oddsmakers expect a Celtics victory, but that is why they play the games. The over/under of 199 points, after opening around 196.5, suggests a low-scoring game, even with the total inching upwards.
Updated Injury Information (as of April 27th, 2025)
Boston Celtics:
- Jrue Holiday: OUT (Right Hamstring Strain) – Holiday will miss his second consecutive game due to this injury.
- Jaylen Brown: QUESTIONABLE (Right Knee Posterior Impingement) – Brown’s status for Game 4 is uncertain due to a knee issue. He played through a dislocated finger in Game 3 but now has a separate concern.
Orlando Magic:
- Jalen Suggs: OUT for the season (Left Knee Trochlea Cartilage Tear). Suggs has been out for an extended period. He will not return this season.
- Moe Wagner: OUT for the season (Left Knee Torn ACL). Wagner is sidelined for the rest of the season. He is out due to a knee injury.
The Celtics’ injury report is the more concerning heading into Game 4, particularly the potential absence of Jaylen Brown. His availability will significantly impact Boston’s offensive and defensive strategies. The Magic continue to be without Suggs and Moe Wagner, but their current rotation has adjusted to these absences.
Prediction
The Celtics have a strong track record after a loss. With their overall experience, they will likely come out with a renewed focus after dropping Game 3. However, playing on the road without Jrue Holiday, and potentially without a fully healthy Jaylen Brown, presents a significant challenge. The Magic are fueled by their home crowd. They have gained confidence from their Game 3 victory. They will be eager to even the series.
This game is expected to be another tightly contested affair. Orlando’s defense has proven capable of disrupting Boston’s high-powered offense. If Jaylen Brown is either out or limited, the Magic’s chances of securing another win increase. However, the Celtics possess the depth and talent to overcome adversity.
Prediction: Boston Celtics win a close game, but the Orlando Magic cover the spread.
Predicted Score: Boston Celtics 103 – Orlando Magic 99
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