The 2024/25 NBA season reaches a pivotal moment as the Boston Celtics take on the Orlando Magic in Game 1 of the first round of the Eastern Conference playoffs. Scheduled for Sunday, April 20, at 4:30 p.m. ET, the matchup will unfold at the iconic TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. The Celtics, reigning NBA champions, enter as favorites, but the Magic, with their stout defense and emerging stars, are poised to make this series competitive. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN 2, Disney+, and NBA League Pass, providing fans with multiple ways to catch every moment.
Boston finished the regular season as the second seed in the Eastern Conference, boasting an impressive 19 wins in their last 22 games. Led by Jayson Tatum, who averages 26.8 points per game, the Celtics rely on their deep roster and the electric atmosphere of TD Garden, where they’ve won their last six playoff games. Meanwhile, the Orlando Magic, the seventh seed, secured their playoff spot with a commanding win over the Atlanta Hawks in the play-in tournament, driven by the league’s most efficient defense, allowing just 105.5 points per game.
Historically, the rivalry between these teams has been closely contested, with Boston holding an 83-65 edge in 148 matchups. Over the last six meetings, each team has won three times, hinting at a tightly fought series. For fans attending the game, Boston’s weather forecast predicts chilly temperatures around 36°F with clear skies, perfect for the indoor setting of the arena.
- Where to watch live: ESPN 2, Disney+, NBA League Pass.
- Time: 4:30 p.m. ET.
- Venue: TD Garden, Boston, Massachusetts.
Context of the matchup
The Boston Celtics enter the playoffs with the confidence of a team that clinched the championship last season against the Dallas Mavericks. Under head coach Joe Mazzulla, the team leans on its offensive and defensive consistency, with Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown forming one of the NBA’s most dynamic duos. The regular season saw Boston dominate at home, losing just five games at TD Garden. The return of players like Jrue Holiday, who recovered from a finger injury, and Jaylen Brown, post-knee surgery, bolsters their lineup for this series.
The Orlando Magic, coached by Jamahl Mosley, have exceeded expectations this season with a defense that leads the league in blocks (6.0 per game) and restricts opponents’ three-point attempts. Despite injuries to key players like Jalen Suggs and Moritz Wagner during the play-in, the team showed resilience. Their 120-95 rout of the Atlanta Hawks, led by Cole Anthony’s 26 points, highlighted their offensive potential, even without some starters.
This matchup pits contrasting styles against each other: Boston’s high-powered offense versus Orlando’s lockdown defense. While the Celtics aim to dictate the pace with long-range shooting, the Magic will rely on fast-break opportunities and rim protection. The TD Garden crowd, known for its intensity, gives Boston an edge, but Orlando has proven capable of winning on the road, taking six of their last seven away games.
Probable lineups and key players
The starting lineups for Game 1 reflect each team’s current form. The Boston Celtics are expected to field a versatile and experienced unit, while the Orlando Magic, despite injury concerns, maintain their defensive identity.
- Boston Celtics: Jrue Holiday (point guard), Derrick White (shooting guard), Jaylen Brown (small forward), Jayson Tatum (power forward), Luke Kornet (center).
- Orlando Magic: Cory Joseph (point guard), Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (shooting guard), Franz Wagner (small forward), Paolo Banchero (power forward), Wendell Carter Jr. (center).
- Coaches: Joe Mazzulla (Celtics), Jamahl Mosley (Magic).
Jayson Tatum is Boston’s centerpiece, averaging 26.8 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game. His ability to deliver in clutch moments makes him a likely leader for the Celtics. Jaylen Brown’s athleticism and Jrue Holiday’s elite defense round out the attack. For Orlando, Franz Wagner (24.2 points per game) and Paolo Banchero, with his all-around game, are the offensive focal points. Cole Anthony, coming off the bench, could be a game-changer, as seen in the play-in.
Head-to-head history
The Celtics-Magic rivalry has been defined by competitive games and fine margins. Over the past five years, the teams have met 18 times, with Boston winning 10 and Orlando claiming 8. In the 2024/25 regular season, the Magic pulled off an upset in their first meeting, even without Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero, boosting their confidence heading into the playoffs.
In postseason history, Boston holds a 4-2 advantage in series wins over Orlando. The most notable clash came in the 2009/10 Eastern Conference Finals, when the Celtics eliminated the Magic. Orlando has been chasing redemption ever since, and Mosley’s young squad sees the 2025 playoffs as a chance to make a statement.
The rivalry is fueled by standout performances, like the Tatum-Banchero duels that showcase the NBA’s present and future stars. TD Garden has hosted thrilling moments in this matchup, and Game 1 is set to add another chapter to the story.
Recent results
The last five games for each team provide insight into their current form. The Boston Celtics are riding a wave of momentum, while the Orlando Magic have shown resilience despite some setbacks.
- Boston Celtics:
- Win vs. Charlotte Hornets (93-86).
- Win vs. Philadelphia 76ers (123-105).
- Win vs. Washington Wizards (112-98).
- Loss vs. Cleveland Cavaliers (104-101).
- Win vs. Miami Heat (108-95).
- Orlando Magic:
- Win vs. Atlanta Hawks (120-95).
- Loss vs. Miami Heat (114-110).
- Win vs. Brooklyn Nets (118-112).
- Loss vs. New York Knicks (108-104).
- Win vs. Chicago Bulls (115-110).
Where to watch and tickets
Basketball fans have several options to follow Game 1 between the Celtics and Magic. The game will be available on major broadcast and streaming platforms covering the NBA. For those hoping to attend in person, tickets are nearly sold out, reflecting the high anticipation for the matchup.
- Live broadcast:
- ESPN 2: Cable channel with English commentary.
- Disney+: Streaming platform with original or dubbed audio options.
- NBA League Pass: Official NBA platform with full coverage.
- Tickets: Available through the NBA’s official website or authorized vendors, though most TD Garden sections are sold out. Prices range from $100 to $500, depending on seating.
Attending a game at TD Garden is a unique experience, with state-of-the-art jumbotrons and a passionate crowd creating an electric atmosphere. For fans unable to secure tickets, Boston bars like The Fours and Halftime Pizza offer big screens and a lively game-day vibe.
Officiating and weather forecast
The officiating crew for Game 1 will be confirmed by the NBA hours before tip-off, but a veteran trio is expected given the game’s significance. Referees like Scott Foster or Tony Brothers, known for their strict calls, could oversee the matchup, ensuring control in what promises to be a physical contest.
Boston’s weather on game day is expected to be favorable for fans heading to TD Garden. With temperatures between 32°F and 39°F and clear skies, the cold New England weather won’t impact the indoor game. Fans attending should dress warmly for the chilly evening.
Matchup fun facts
The Celtics-Magic clash is rich with history and intriguing tidbits that add depth to the rivalry. From iconic moments to individual brilliance, Game 1 of the 2025 playoffs is poised to deliver.
- Championships: The Celtics are the NBA’s most decorated franchise with 18 titles, the latest in 2024. The Magic have never won a championship but reached the Finals in 1995 and 2009.
- Stars on display: Jayson Tatum is in the MVP conversation, while Paolo Banchero is a rising star and a candidate for Most Improved Player.
- TD Garden dominance: Boston won 80% of their home games in the regular season, while Orlando had a 46% win rate on the road.
- Defensive battle: The Magic lead the NBA in blocks, while the Celtics rank third in points allowed per game.
Game predictions
Analysts favor the Boston Celtics in Game 1, citing their home-court advantage and veteran roster. However, the Orlando Magic have the tools to pull off an upset, particularly if their defense stifles Boston’s three-point shooting. The game is expected to be close, with the outcome likely decided in the final minutes.
Tatum is projected to score over 27.5 points, exploiting Orlando’s weakness defending wings. For the Magic, Wagner and Banchero are expected to combine for over 40 points, keeping the game competitive. Bettors are leaning toward a low-scoring game, with under 210 total points, given Orlando’s defensive prowess and Boston’s efficiency in playoff settings.
Series schedule
The Celtics-Magic series is set for up to seven games, with dates and venues outlined by the NBA. Game 1 kicks off the battle, but the series promises drama as it shifts between Boston and Orlando.
- Game 1: April 20, TD Garden, Boston (4:30 p.m. ET).
- Game 2: April 24, TD Garden, Boston (time TBD).
- Game 3: April 26, Kia Center, Orlando (time TBD).
- Game 4: April 28, Kia Center, Orlando (time TBD).
- Game 5 (if necessary): April 30, TD Garden, Boston.
- Game 6 (if necessary): May 2, Kia Center, Orlando.
- Game 7 (if necessary): May 4, TD Garden, Boston.
Impact of coaching
Joe Mazzulla, Boston’s head coach, is known for his tactical acumen and ability to adapt in high-stakes moments. In his third season, Mazzulla guided the Celtics to the 2024 title and aims to repeat the feat. His game plan against Orlando will likely focus on exploiting mismatches in the paint and maintaining defensive intensity to neutralize Banchero and Wagner.
Jamahl Mosley has transformed the Orlando Magic into a defensive juggernaut. In his fourth year, Mosley has earned league-wide respect for leading a young roster to back-to-back playoff appearances. His strategy will emphasize defensive discipline and quick transitions to catch Boston off guard.
The coaching matchup between Mazzulla and Mosley will be a highlight of the series. Boston’s experience gives them an edge, but Orlando’s energy and unpredictability could level the playing field.
TD Garden atmosphere
TD Garden, with a capacity of 19,156, is one of the NBA’s most intimidating venues. The Celtics’ fanbase, dubbed “Celtics Pride,” creates a hostile environment for opponents with relentless chants and unwavering support. During the playoffs, the arena transforms, draped in green and white banners, amplifying the team’s home advantage.
For the Orlando Magic, playing at TD Garden is a test of composure. The team has faced tough road environments this season, like their win over the Miami Heat, but Boston’s crowd presents a unique challenge. A small contingent of Magic fans will add a touch of rivalry to the stands.
Series outlook
The Celtics-Magic series is one of the most compelling first-round matchups in the playoffs. Boston carries the pressure of defending their title, while Orlando plays with the freedom of an underdog, making the series unpredictable. The key for the Celtics is consistency on both ends, while the Magic need standout performances from their young stars.
The historical balance between the teams suggests the series could go at least six games. If Orlando steals a win in Boston, their confidence could surge, but the Celtics’ playoff experience makes them tough to beat at home. The Tatum-Banchero matchup, pitting two of the league’s top forwards, will be a must-watch.
