The Boston Celtics sent a powerful message to the Eastern Conference on Tuesday night, thrashing the Orlando Magic 120-89 in Game 5 to secure a 4-1 series win and book their spot in the second round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs. The blowout took place at a roaring TD Garden, where the Celtics dominated nearly every facet of the game.
After a slow first quarter in which Orlando led 27-23, Boston tightened the screws on both ends of the floor. The second quarter saw a balanced response, but it was the third-quarter explosion (36-13) that turned the contest into a rout. Boston’s suffocating defense and efficient shooting overwhelmed the Magic, who simply couldn’t keep pace.
Jayson Tatum put in a superstar performance, finishing with 35 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 assists, controlling the tempo and exploiting mismatches throughout. He was supported by Jaylen Brown (23 pts), Al Horford, Payton Pritchard, and others, showcasing Boston’s remarkable depth.
The Celtics shot 56.6% from the field and 54.2% from beyond the arc, hitting 13 of their 24 three-point attempts. Meanwhile, Orlando struggled mightily from deep, connecting on just 8 of 38 (21.1%).
Despite Franz Wagner’s 25 points and Paolo Banchero’s 19-point, 9-rebound effort, the Magic couldn’t recover from their lackluster second-half performance. Wendell Carter Jr. added a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds, but turnovers, poor perimeter defense, and low shooting efficiency sealed their fate.
Statistically, the Celtics outclassed Orlando with 30 assists, superior ball movement, and a more disciplined approach, committing just 11 turnovers. Boston’s bench also delivered, contributing 45 points and maintaining pressure through all four quarters.
With this win, the Celtics continue their pursuit of Banner 18, armed with momentum and confidence. They now await the result of the other first-round series to determine their next opponent.
