The Boston Celtics will face the Orlando Magic on Friday at the Kia Center without several key players. Jayson Tatum remains out as he continues recovery from right Achilles surgery, and Xavier Tillman will miss the game due to personal reasons. Two-way players Max Shulga and Amari Williams are also unavailable.
Boston currently has a 4-5 overall record and leads East Group B with a 1-0 mark. The team has leaned heavily on Jaylen Brown, who is averaging 27.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 4.3 assists over nine games.
The Magic report fewer injuries, with Moritz Wagner sidelined due to a left knee issue. Orlando holds a 3-5 record and this will be their first appearance in East Group B action. Paolo Banchero remains the leading scorer, averaging 23.1 points and 9.5 rebounds per game, while Franz Wagner adds 22 points and 5.5 rebounds.
The Celtics have lost two of their last three games, most recently a close 103–105 defeat to Utah. The Magic enter after a 112–127 loss in Atlanta. Both sides have been inconsistent, making Friday’s matchup difficult to predict despite Boston’s slightly stronger group standing.
“Friday’s tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 PM ET at the Kia Center in Orlando.”
With injuries reshaping both lineups, Friday’s Celtics–Magic showdown promises uncertainty as Boston seeks to stabilize and Orlando aims to gain early group momentum.