Boston Celtics vs Orlando Magic Game 3 key points and takeaways

Published by Shawn C.

The Boston Celtics faced the Orlando Magic in Game 3 of their first-round Eastern Conference playoff series on April 25, 2025, at the Kia Center in Orlando. Here are the key points for the game based on available information:

• Series Context: The Celtics led the series 2-0 after winning Game 1 (103-86) and Game 2 (109-100) in Boston. The defending NBA champions were favored to continue their dominance, but the Magic aimed to leverage their home court and defensive prowess to make the series competitive.

• Game Importance: Game 3 was critical for Orlando, as a loss would put them in a 3-0 deficit, a hole no NBA team has ever overcome in a playoff series. The Magic needed strong performances from stars Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner to challenge Boston’s high-powered offense.

• Key Matchup: 3-Point Battle: The series hinged on the contrast between Boston’s record-setting 3-point shooting (1,364 made in the regular season) and Orlando’s elite 3-point defense, which allowed the fewest 3-point attempts in the league. In Games 1 and 2, Boston shot 16/37 and 12/37 from three, respectively, while Orlando struggled offensively, ranking 27th in half-court offensive efficiency. The Magic needed to limit Boston’s 3-point makes and improve their own 3-point shooting (7/29 in Game 2) to stay competitive.

• Injury Concerns:

• Boston: Jayson Tatum was doubtful for Game 2 due to a wrist injury sustained in Game 1 but played in earlier games; his status for Game 3 isn’t explicitly detailed, but his potential absence or limited play was a factor. Jaylen Brown, dealing with a lingering knee issue, played 31 minutes in Game 1 and was expected to be a focal point.

• Orlando: The Magic were without Jalen Suggs and Moritz Wagner due to season-ending injuries, weakening their defense and rotation. This put more pressure on Banchero and Franz Wagner to carry the offense.