Celtics Defeat Magic 103-86 in Game 1 Playoffs

The Boston Celtics took a 1-0 lead in their first-round playoff series against the Orlando Magic with a commanding 103-86 win, fueled by Derrick White's 30-point performance and a strong second-half defensive effort. Orlando initially kept the game close through aggressive offensive rebounding and led at halftime, but Boston surged ahead with a decisive third-quarter run, outscoring the Magic 30-16. Paolo Banchero led Orlando with 36 points, while Franz Wagner contributed 23, yet the Magic struggled to find offensive answers beyond their top scorers as Boston tightened up defensively. The absence of key defender Jalen Suggs has left Orlando vulnerable against Boston's deep and versatile lineup, with analysts noting the need for Anthony Black to step up as a potential difference-maker. Both teams acknowledged the physicality and intensity of the matchup, with Celtics players and coach Joe Mazzulla emphasizing the importance of exploiting small margins and sticking to their process. Game 2 is set to take place in Boston on Wednesday night.