The Boston Celtics cruised into the NBA Eastern Conference Semifinals with a 4–1 series win over the Orlando Magic, but the numbers don’t tell the full story. Each game was a physical battle, and the defending champions had to dig deep to advance. Up next: a marquee matchup with the New York Knicks, who punched their ticket with a 4–2 victory over the Detroit Pistons. Celtics stars Jaylen Brown and Kristaps Porzingis are under no illusions—this next series will be a war.
Boston, looking to defend its NBA title, will host Game 1 against the Knicks at TD Garden on Monday. Speaking to the Boston Herald’s Zach Cox, Brown addressed the weight of the moment and the history behind the rivalry.
“It’s a great stage for basketball, just all the history between Boston and New York,” Brown said. “It’s great to be able to relive that. Boston versus New York—it don’t get much better than that.” For Porzingis, the series marks his first playoff matchup against the team that drafted him fourth overall in the 2015 NBA Draft.
“Even between the fanbases,” Porzingis added, “it’s going to be a war.” The matchup has all the ingredients for a classic: iconic cities, passionate supporters, star power, and contrasting playing styles. This isn’t just about basketball—it’s about two franchises with deep roots in the culture of the league.
Jaylen Brown reflects on Orlando series: “It was a fight”
Celtics All-Star Jaylen Brown didn’t hold back when describing the challenge Orlando posed in the first round. While Boston closed the series in five games, Brown made it clear the Magic tested them physically and mentally from start to finish.
“It was a fight. It was a fight physically, mentally [with] Orlando,” Brown said. “Shout out to them. One team had to advance. Fortunately, it was us. But respect to Orlando.” His comments reflect a deep appreciation for how competitive the Magic were, despite their inexperience.
The Magic earned that respect, showing resilience and tenacity throughout the series. Much of their success came from the growing chemistry between young stars Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. Their connection fuels optimism in Orlando, and it’s clear the NBA franchise now has a promising foundation. With more roster help, they could be a force in the near future.