Jayson Tatum’s 35-point performance, combined with 10 assists and eight rebounds, helped the Boston Celtics close out their first-round series with a dominant 120-89 victory over the Orlando Magic on Tuesday night. The Celtics’ 4-1 series win sends them to the Eastern Conference semifinals, where they’ll await the winner of the New York Knicks vs. Detroit Pistons series.
After the game, Tatum spoke about his mindset throughout the series, noting how the Magic’s defensive strategy forced him to take a more aggressive role. “They went to the extreme, really trying to take our threes away, switching everything,” Tatum said. “It was tough from a playmaking standpoint, but whatever the game called for, I was able to step up.”
Tatum, who had missed Game 2 due to a wrist injury, has now scored 35 or more points in three consecutive playoff games. His shooting was efficient, finishing 10-of-16 from the field and a perfect 11-for-11 from the free-throw line. Tatum credited the team’s adaptability for their success, explaining how they adjusted when Orlando’s defense changed. “They went zone, they had some different matchups out there, so we had to play a little differently,” he said.
Despite the focus on Tatum and Jaylen Brown, Tatum acknowledged the support of his teammates. “We want to utilize everybody on our team,” Tatum said. “It’s about trust—whether it’s me or JB or anyone else with the ball, we just have to make the right play.”
Boston’s offense found its rhythm in the second half after struggling in the first. The Celtics used a 31-9 run in the third quarter to break the game open, aided by Paolo Banchero fouling out. Tatum was quick to credit the team’s mental toughness. “We didn’t like how we played in the first half, but we stuck with it and turned it up a notch,” he said.
Tatum also shared his sense of freedom this season after winning the championship last year. “This season has been the most relaxed and carefree I’ve been,” he admitted. “Not having to prove anything, just playing my game and knowing what I’m capable of.”
Looking to the future, Tatum highlighted the competitive nature of his matchup against Banchero. “He’s a matchup nightmare,” Tatum said. “He’s only going to get better, and we’ll have many more battles in the years to come.”
The Celtics, despite their discomfort through much of the series, proved their resilience. Tatum said it was the perfect test for the team. “We showed our mental toughness, getting ready for each game and doing whatever it takes,” he explained.
