
The Boston Celtics defeated the Orlando Magic with a score of 120-89 in Game 5 of their playoff series, securing their advance to the Eastern Conference semifinals.
Jayson Tatum was a standout player, achieving 35 points, 10 assists, and 8 rebounds. The Celtics capitalized on a critical point when Magic star Paolo Banchero was sidelined after accumulating five fouls, which significantly shifted the momentum of the game.
In their upcoming matches, the Celtics will face either the New York Knicks or the Detroit Pistons, who are currently leading their own series 3-2.
Other notable players included Franz Wagner, who scored 25 points for the Magic, alongside Paolo Banchero, contributing 19 points. Wendell Carter Jr. also added to the scoreboard with 12 points and 10 rebounds.
The Celtics faced a unique challenge, as they went the entire first half without making a three-point basket, marking a notable absence in their usually prolific 3-point shooting performance. This marked the first halftime in four years without a 3-pointer for Boston. It was only in the third quarter that Tatum secured their first three-pointer, demonstrating their evolving game dynamics.
Boston’s strategy excelled once Banchero went to the bench, allowing them to score 31 out of the next 40 points and leading them to a commanding victory.