As the Orlando Magic gear up for a tough playoff matchup against the reigning NBA champion Boston Celtics, there’s one thing they’re well aware of: physicality will be key.
According to Mike Bianchi of the Orlando Sentinel, if the Magic hope to stand a real chance of advancing past the Celtics, they’ll need to raise their level of physical play and toughness across the board.
In a separate piece for the Sentinel, reporter Jason Beede highlights that despite the challenge of facing a veteran, title-tested Celtics squad, the Magic remain confident they can avoid a sweep and make the series competitive.
The team believes it matches up well in several key areas, especially on the defensive end.
“Defensive intensity is always there for us,” said star forward Paolo Banchero. “We know we can hold these guys under their [scoring average]. We know we can guard them. It’s just these little runs that we let them go on is what kills us.”
While Orlando’s defensive effort is consistent, brief lapses – those momentum-swinging runs – have made all the difference against a team as explosive as Boston.
Limiting those stretches, staying engaged on every possession, and matching the Celtics’ physical presence are all points of emphasis as the series progresses.
Southeast Notes: Salaun, Mann, Magic Playoff Series, Heat Picks https://t.co/fXn8H9Kxch pic.twitter.com/MnNbaccwG2
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) April 25, 2025
