The Boston Celtics and Jayson Tatum took care of business in Game 1, cruising to a convincing 103–86 win over the Orlando Magic to seize the early lead in their first-round NBA playoff series. Despite the lopsided final score, the matchup featured strong individual efforts on both sides—particularly from Orlando’s rising star duo of Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. Still, it was Boston’s depth and balance that proved decisive.
After the game, Celtics star Jayson Tatum praised the performances of his teammates, particularly the backcourt duo of Derrick White and Jrue Holiday. “They’ve built a great chemistry,” Tatum said. “Just two selfless, high-IQ guys that can make plays on both sides, and they really make our team go.”
Tatum had a relatively quiet night offensively, finishing with 17 points on 22 shots. But he contributed in other ways, hauling in 14 rebounds and providing leadership on both ends.
Fortunately for Boston, others stepped up. White led the way with a stellar 30-point performance, adding four rebounds, two assists, two blocks, and a steal while shooting 10-for-18 from the field—including 7-of-12 from deep. Payton Pritchard added 19 points off the bench, and Jaylen Brown chipped in 16 points and five boards.
Franz Wagner #22 and Paolo Banchero #5 of the Orlando Magic celebrate after scoring against the San Antonio Spurs
Orlando’s young duo shines—but comes up short
While the Celtics leaned on depth, Orlando leaned heavily on the brilliance of its young stars. Banchero was spectacular, dropping 36 points to go with 11 rebounds and 4 assists. Wagner added 23 points, 3 rebounds, and 5 assists of his own. The Magic’s dynamic duo showed exactly why they’re considered one of the brightest tandems in the Eastern Conference—but they lacked the necessary support to keep pace.
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Boston’s defensive intensity and depth ultimately wore Orlando down. Despite Banchero and Wagner’s efforts, no other Magic player scored in double figures in game 1.
Celtics’ collective identity proving key
Perhaps the biggest takeaway from Game 1 is Boston’s growing ability to win without leaning heavily on Tatum or Brown to carry the scoring load. With four players in double figures and a strong bench performance, the Celtics are showcasing the type of versatility that championship teams are made of.
This isn’t the same Celtics team that once lived and died by its stars. It’s a squad defined by structure, depth, and adaptability—traits that become invaluable in a playoff series.
Looking ahead to game 2
For Orlando to respond in Game 2, they’ll need more from their supporting cast. Boston has already shown that it can win in multiple ways—whether through elite scoring, lockdown defense, or, as in Game 1, a collective effort that overwhelms NBA opponents.
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As the series unfolds, the question becomes not whether the Celtics have star power—but whether any team in the East can match their completeness.
