The Boston Celtics kicked off their second-round playoff series with Derrick White against the Orlando Magic in dominant fashion, securing a 103-86 victory in Game 1 at TD Garden. Derrick White led the charge with a career playoff-high 30 points, while Jayson Tatum shook off a scary fall to contribute 22 points. The Celtics’ defense stifled Orlando’s offense, setting the tone for what promises to be a hard-fought series.
Derrick White Breakout Performance
White was the star of the night, delivering a masterclass in scoring and playmaking. He shot an efficient 10-of-16 from the field, including 5-of-10 from three-point range, while also dishing out three assists. His aggressive drives and clutch shooting kept the Magic defense scrambling all night.
“I just tried to stay aggressive,” White said postgame. “My teammates kept finding me, and I was able to knock down shots. It’s all about trusting the work.”
White’s performance was especially crucial with Kristaps Porziņģis sidelined due to a calf strain. The Celtics needed someone to step up alongside Tatum and Jaylen Brown, and White answered the call emphatically.
Tatum’s Scary Moment and Resilience
Midway through the third quarter, Tatum took a hard fall after driving to the basket, landing awkwardly on his back. The arena fell silent as trainers rushed to check on him, but after a brief pause, the Celtics’ star got up and stayed in the game.
Tatum shook off the scare and continued to make an impact, finishing with 22 points, six rebounds, and three assists. His ability to play through discomfort set the tone for Boston’s toughness.
“It’s the playoffs—you’ve got to be ready for anything,” Tatum said. “I wasn’t coming out unless I absolutely had to.”
Celtics’ Defense Shuts Down Magic
While the offense was clicking, Boston’s defense was the real story. The Celtics held Orlando to just 86 points, well below their season average. Paolo Banchero, the Magic’s rising star, was limited to 17 points on 6-of-17 shooting, while Franz Wagner added 16 but struggled with efficiency.
Boston’s switch-heavy defense disrupted Orlando’s rhythm, forcing contested shots and turnovers. The Magic shot just 33% from three and turned the ball over 14 times, leading to easy transition buckets for the Celtics.
“We knew we had to be locked in defensively,” said Jrue Holiday, who contributed 12 points and stellar perimeter defense. “They’re a young, athletic team, but we made them work for everything.”
Key Takeaways for Game 2
- Derrick White’s Continued Aggression – If White maintains this level of play, Orlando will have a tough time containing Boston’s offense.
- Tatum’s Health – While Tatum stayed in the game, his fall was a reminder of how quickly things can change in the playoffs. The Celtics need him at full strength.
- Magic’s Adjustments – Orlando must find ways to generate easier shots and get Banchero going early. More ball movement and attacking the paint could help.
Final Thoughts
The Celtics sent a strong message in Game 1: they’re locked in and ready for a deep playoff run. With White stepping up, Tatum battling through adversity, and the defense suffocating Orlando, Boston looks like the team to beat.
But the Magic are young, hungry, and unlikely to go down without a fight. Game 2 will be a test of adjustments—can Orlando respond, or will the Celtics continue their dominance?
One thing is certain: this series is just getting started.
Final Score: Celtics 103, Magic 86
Series: Celtics lead 1-0
Next Game: Game 2 – Wednesday, TD Garden
What did you think of the Celtics’ performance? Let us know in the comments!
