Celtics vs. Magic First Round Preview: Boston’s Depth Too Much for Orlando
The reigning NBA champions begin their quest for a repeat as the Boston Celtics face off against the Orlando Magic in the first round of the Eastern Conference playoffs. And let’s be honest—this is a mismatch on paper.
Boston is a championship-level machine. Orlando? A fun, young team that’s ahead of schedule but simply not ready for what’s coming.
The Champs Are Locked In
The Celtics enter this series with a clear edge in talent, experience, and depth. With Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and a healthy Kristaps Porziņģis, this is a team firing on all cylinders. Add in elite defenders like Jrue Holiday, knockdown shooters, and a well-coached system, and it’s no wonder Boston is the heavy favorite.
They’ve been here before. They’re built for moments like this. And they’re not about to slip in Round 1.
Magic Need a Miracle
Orlando deserves credit for its growth this season. Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero are exciting, skilled, and fearless. But to have any real shot in this series, they’ll have to be superhuman, night after night.
The Magic lack playoff reps, consistent scoring options beyond their stars, and the defensive firepower to slow Boston down for four quarters—let alone four games.
This is a young team that will learn a lot, but it’s just not their time yet.
Why This Ends in 5 (or Less)
The Celtics aren’t a team that messes around with inferior competition. They know the grind of a playoff run, and they’ll want to close this one out early to stay rested for tougher battles ahead.
Expect the Magic to steal one game at home with a monster Paolo performance or a hot shooting night—but anything more would be shocking.
Prediction: Celtics in 5
Orlando’s young core will grow from this experience. But the Celtics are too polished, too deep, and too focused to let this series go longer than it should.
Celtics in 5. Book it.
Betting Insight:
Boston -2.5 games in the series spread is worth a look. Game-to-game, monitor Paolo Banchero’s points props—he’ll be Orlando’s offensive engine and could clear overs even in losses.