Magic Reverse Roles with 123-110 Victory Over Celtics
Franz Wagner scored 27 points, one of seven Magic players reaching double figures, as the Boston Celtics struggled down the final stretch in Orlando.
Playoff Rematch and Team Changes
Last spring, the Celtics and Magic clashed in a tough first-round playoff series marked by Orlando’s physical play, which Boston struggled to handle. Though the Celtics won the series in five games, the encounter appeared to take a toll, possibly contributing to their defeat by the Knicks in the next round.
Since then, both teams have evolved. The Magic strengthened their offense by adding Desmond Bane, while the Celtics have embraced a scrappier, underdog role in games.
NBA Cup Game Overview
In their recent NBA Cup meeting on Friday night, the Magic seized control with an exceptionally accurate shooting performance that the Celtics could not counter. Despite overcoming a 16-point early deficit and reclaiming the lead early in the fourth quarter, Boston faded near the end, losing 123-110.
- Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 32 points and nine rebounds.
- Payton Pritchard added 27 points for Boston.
- Franz Wagner spearheaded the Magic with 27 points.
- The Magic hit a season-best 17 of 36 three-pointers.
- Orlando dominated the fourth quarter, outscoring Boston by 39 points.
“I didn’t feel like we got out-physicaled,” Pritchard said.
Summary: The Magic’s sharpshooting and depth overcame the Celtics’ early comeback, flipping the dynamic from last season’s playoff series into a decisive 123-110 win.