Celtics Face Frontcourt Challenges Against Magic
The Celtics enter their second NBA Cup game with a nearly clean injury sheet, except for a key frontcourt absence. Xavier Tillman will miss the matchup against the Orlando Magic on Friday at 7 p.m. EST due to personal reasons.
Roster Updates
- Rookies Amari Williams and Max Shulga are currently playing with the Maine Celtics.
- The Magic will be without Moritz Wagner, who is recovering from a torn ACL.
Season Context and Matchup Preview
This marks the Celtics' second game in the NBA Cup, holding a 1-0 record after defeating the 76ers last week. The Magic have yet to play their first Cup game.
Without Tillman, Boston will face a tougher task containing Magic's big man Paolo Banchero. In the first round of the 2025 playoffs, Banchero averaged 29.4 points per game against the Celtics in a series Boston won 4-1.
Boston struggled to limit Banchero's rebounding impact, as he had seven or more rebounds in four of the five games.
Teams' Motivations
The Magic aim for revenge after their playoff loss and seek to prove themselves a serious contender in the Eastern Conference. Meanwhile, the Celtics strive to maintain momentum following a convincing win over the Wizards, bouncing back from a two-game win streak.
Broadcast Information
The Celtics vs. Magic game will be broadcast on 98.5 The Sports Hub, with pregame coverage starting at 6:30 p.m. EST.
"Xavier Tillman (personal reasons) will not be available when the Celtics take on the Magic in Orlando Friday night at 7 p.m EST."
Summary: The Celtics face a significant frontcourt absence against the Magic but aim to continue their strong Cup run, while Orlando looks for playoff revenge and conference respect.