The Boston Celtics visit the Orlando Magic Friday as their NBA Eastern Conference first-round playoff series shifts to the Kia Center. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. ET.
The Celtics hold a commanding 2-0 lead after securing victories in the first two games at TD Garden. The Magic are now in a position where they need a win on their home court to keep their postseason hopes alive.
Boston won Game 1 with a 103-86 score, followed by a 109-100 victory in Game 2. In the most recent Celtics game, forward Jaylen Brown delivered a strong performance, scoring 36 points and adding 10 rebounds to help secure the win.
The Celtics face some uncertainty regarding player availability. Jayson Tatum, who has been dealing with a wrist issue, is listed as doubtful for the contest. Brown and guard Jrue Holiday are also questionable. The Magic previously lost Jalen Suggs and Moritz Wagner for the season due to injuries.
Orlando will look to their top players to turn the series around. Forward Paolo Banchero has led the team in scoring through the first two games, averaging 34 points per contest and posting back-to-back games with 30 or more points. Franz Wagner also contributes significantly to the Magic's offense, averaging 24 points in the series.
Oddsmakers have listed the Celtics as a favorite heading into the road game. The latest lines from DraftKings Sportsbook place Boston as a 4.5-point favorite. The over/under for total points in the game is set around 197.5 to 198.5.
Fans can watch the Celtics vs. Magic matchup on national television via ESPN. Local broadcasts are also available on Bally Sports Florida and NBC Sports Boston. Streaming options include platforms like Fubo.
Historically, the Magic have found success against the Celtics when playing at the Kia Center, having won their last four meetings there. Orlando hopes to leverage this home court advantage to steal a victory in Game 3.
A win for the Orlando Magic would extend the series and provide a much-needed boost of momentum.