ORLANDO, Fla. – The Boston Celtics are facing a critical moment in their playoff journey as they prepare for Game 3 against the Orlando Magic tonight, April 25, 2025. After securing a 2-0 lead in the first round of the NBA playoffs, the Celtics are now dealing with significant injury concerns that could impact their chances of advancing further.
Jayson Tatum, the Celtics' All-Star forward, was initially listed as doubtful due to a severe bone bruise on his right wrist sustained during Game 1. However, just hours before tip-off, the team announced that Tatum has been upgraded to available, a relief for fans and teammates alike. Tatum's injury had kept him sidelined for Game 2, marking his first-ever absence in the postseason.
“He’s feeling a little better so we’ll see how it goes,” Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla said during a pregame press conference. Tatum had played 114 consecutive playoff games before missing Game 2, and his return is crucial as he brings not only scoring but also leadership to the court.
Meanwhile, Jaylen Brown's status was also a point of concern. He was added to the injury report on Friday morning, marked as questionable due to a right knee posterior impingement. This late development raised eyebrows, especially since Brown had just delivered a stellar performance in Game 2, scoring 36 points, grabbing 10 rebounds, and dishing out 5 assists. Fortunately, he too has been cleared to play, further strengthening Boston's lineup.
On the other hand, Jrue Holiday will not be participating in Game 3 due to a right hamstring strain. Holiday had played 36 minutes in Game 2, contributing 11 points, 4 rebounds, and 6 assists. His absence will be felt, as he has been a key player for the Celtics throughout the season.
The Celtics' injury woes don’t stop there. Kristaps Porzingis also faced health concerns after sustaining a cut on his forehead during Game 2. Fortunately, the injury was not serious, but it adds to the overall tension surrounding the team as they head into a pivotal game.
Despite these challenges, the Celtics enter Game 3 as 3.5-point favorites. Their depth will be tested, and players like Derrick White and Payton Pritchard may need to step up significantly in Holiday's absence. The Celtics are determined to close out the series swiftly, especially with the potential to face either the New York Knicks or the Detroit Pistons in the next round.
The Magic, on the other hand, are looking to capitalize on the Celtics' injury situation. They showed more aggression in Game 2 but struggled with foul trouble and free throw shooting, converting only 15 of 24 attempts compared to Boston's 25 of 33. As the series transitions to Orlando, the Magic will be eager to turn the tide and avoid falling into a 3-0 hole.
“We need to play with more intensity and focus,” said Magic head coach Jamahl Mosley. “This is a crucial game for us, and we have to take advantage of our home court.”
Game 3 is set to tip off at 7 p.m. ET at the Kia Center, and fans are bracing for what promises to be an electrifying matchup. With both teams knowing how pivotal this game is, expect a fierce battle on the court.
As the Celtics aim to defend their NBA title, the stakes have never been higher. Will Tatum's return be enough to propel them to a commanding 3-0 series lead, or will the Magic seize the opportunity to fight back? The answer will unfold tonight as the playoff intensity reaches new heights.
