Orlando (0-1) at Boston (1-0)
- When: Apr 23 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: TD Garden, Boston, MA, USA
- TV: TNT
NBA Playoff Preview & Pick: Magic vs Celtics Game 2
Line: Boston -11.0 | Total: 197.0
The Boston Celtics are heavy 11-point favorites for Game 2 against the Orlando Magic, with the total set at just 197.0 — a reflection of both teams’ defensive prowess and the pace we saw in the opener.
Orlando Magic Outlook:
Despite a combined 59 points from Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner in Game 1, the Magic offense stalled outside of those two, ultimately falling 103-86. The rest of Orlando’s starting lineup struggled mightily, contributing just 10 points. With Cory Joseph scoreless and Wendell Carter Jr. limited to four points, the Magic failed to generate secondary scoring — a glaring issue that must be addressed if they hope to split the series in Boston.
Defensively, Orlando did a solid job containing Boston’s stars, limiting Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown to a combined 33 points. But the Magic couldn’t keep up with Boston’s depth. Jamahl Mosley’s squad will need more urgency in transition and better offensive execution to avoid going home down 0-2. Look for them to push the pace early and test Boston’s defense in unsettled situations. Still, inconsistency outside of Banchero remains a betting red flag.
Boston Celtics Outlook:
The Celtics turned up the heat in the second half of Game 1, outscoring Orlando 55-37 over the final two quarters. Derrick White was the standout with 30 points and seven made threes, while Payton Pritchard added a huge spark off the bench with 19 points. Those bench contributions were the difference, especially with Tatum managing only 17 points and now questionable for Game 2 due to a wrist issue.
Jaylen Brown stepped up with a key third quarter, scoring 10 of his 16 points, and Jrue Holiday shook off a scoreless first half with nine in the third. Boston’s ability to adjust at halftime, tighten up defensively, and control the tempo was the deciding factor — something bettors should note heading into Game 2.
Even if Tatum sits, Boston’s system has proven reliable, especially at home. With the league’s best road record and momentum on their side, the Celtics have the depth to cover the spread again, particularly if White and Pritchard maintain their form.
Prediction:
Boston continues its dominance at TD Garden with another double-digit win. Even if Tatum doesn’t play, the Celtics’ depth and defensive pressure should overwhelm Orlando again. Expect a lower-scoring battle with Boston pulling away late.
Final Score Prediction: Celtics 104, Magic 91
Best Bet: Boston -11
Lean on Total: Under 197.0 — pace and defense dominate again.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
