Paolo Banchero addressed the Orlando Magic’s 103-86 loss to the Boston Celtics in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series, highlighting key areas of struggle and areas for improvement.
The Celtics took control of the game in the second half, outscoring Orlando 30-18 in the third quarter. When asked about what led to Boston’s surge, Banchero noted that Orlando’s offensive struggles allowed the Celtics to capitalize on runouts, leading to open three-point opportunities.
“I think we just had some stagnant possessions, and that led to their runouts, which led to some threes and opened the lead up,” Banchero said.
As for how the Magic can generate more offensive production beyond Banchero and Franz Wagner, Banchero admitted he would need to review the game film. However, he acknowledged that Game 1’s environment, with its intense crowd and high stakes, may have contributed to their offensive issues.
“It’s game one, you know, there’s nerves, a lit crowd, really loud. So, it’s not a total surprise that we struggled a little bit on offense,” Banchero added.
Banchero also spoke about the importance of limiting turnovers and securing second-chance points when facing a high-powered offense like the Celtics. He emphasized that Boston’s perimeter players, including Payton Pritchard and Derrick White, had significant impacts on the game.
“They hit some big threes that hurt,” Banchero said. “So, yeah, I think we just need to limit the mistakes so we can make them play in the half court.”
While Orlando took a one-point lead into halftime, their offense faltered in the second half. Banchero pointed to Boston’s defense, led by elite defenders like Jrue Holiday, Derrick White, and Jayson Tatum, as a challenge in trying to facilitate offense.
“Part of their game plan was to pick us up full court and make us take time getting the ball up the floor,” Banchero explained. “They’ve got great defenders — Holiday, Derrick White, and Jayson Tatum.”
Defensively, Banchero felt the Magic did a solid job in the half court, but they struggled with Boston’s fast-break game and three-point shooting. The Celtics hit 16 threes, with White and Pritchard combining for 11. Banchero noted that defending the perimeter will be critical in future games.
“Some of the role guys on the wings, they kill you. We’ve got to do a better job of taking them away,” he said.
Despite the tough loss, Banchero remains optimistic for the remainder of the series. He reflected on last year’s playoff experience, where the Magic bounced back from a Game 1 defeat to make the series competitive. For Banchero, the key moving forward is maintaining focus and making adjustments for Game 2.
“The goal is to try and get one. So Game 2, we have to come out with a higher level of focus and just do what we can to get a win on the road,” he concluded.
Game 2 of the series will take place Wednesday night in Boston, where the Magic will look to even the series.
