The Orlando Magic, riding a four-game winning streak against the Boston Celtics, will attempt to become the first team to defeat the league-leading Celtics (18-5) at TD Garden this season. Despite being the underdog, the Magic (16-7) see this as a great opportunity to showcase their capabilities.
Magic Head Coach Jamahl Mosley acknowledges the challenge of facing a Celtics team that boasts a perfect home record of 12-0. He emphasizes the significance of the opportunity for his players and highlights the intense atmosphere at the TD Garden, known for its passionate and loud fans.
The Magic, coming off nine consecutive wins at home, are now on the road, and Mosley emphasizes the need for heightened communication and cohesion when playing away. The team’s success in Orlando, especially in a recent defensive showcase against the Cleveland Cavaliers, serves as motivation to carry their performance on the road.
To contend with the Celtics, the Magic will need to execute a strong defensive game plan against a team loaded with offensive weapons, including offseason additions Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, along with the emerging talent Derrick White. However, the primary focus of the Magic’s defensive strategy will be limiting the impact of perennial All-Stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, both averaging over 20 points per game this season.
Magic forward Jonathan Isaac acknowledges the challenge of playing in Boston but sees it as an opportunity to secure two wins against a formidable opponent. The Magic will be without Markelle Fultz (questionable, left knee tendinitis), Wendell Carter Jr. (out, fractured third metacarpal), Kevon Harris (out, coach’s decision), and Trevelin Queen (out, G League – Two-Way).
The Celtics’ injury report is yet to be submitted, adding an element of uncertainty to the matchup. The Magic’s recent defensive prowess, holding opponents to low field goal percentages and keeping them below 100 points, adds an extra layer of intrigue to this clash between Eastern Conference teams.