BOSTON (AP) — The Boston Celtics showcased their resilience on Wednesday night, overcoming the absence of All-Star Jayson Tatum to defeat the Orlando Magic 109-100 in Game 2 of their first-round playoff series. Jaylen Brown stepped up in a big way, scoring 36 points, grabbing 10 rebounds, and dishing out five assists, leading the Celtics to a commanding 2-0 series lead.
With Tatum sidelined due to a bone bruise in his right wrist, Brown made it clear he was ready to take on the challenge. "He came in saying he was going to do everything it takes to win," Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla said. Brown certainly delivered on that promise, particularly in the fourth quarter, where he scored seven points, including a crucial corner three-pointer with just 1:26 remaining that helped seal the victory.
The Celtics built a 15-point lead in the second half, showcasing their offensive prowess by hitting 12 three-pointers and converting 25 of 33 free throws. Derrick White played a vital role as well, contributing 17 points, with 10 of those coming in the final period alongside Brown.
Despite the Celtics' strong performance, the Magic made a late push, led by Paolo Banchero, who scored 32 points and grabbed nine rebounds. Franz Wagner added 25 points, but it wasn't enough to overcome Boston's balanced attack.
In a game marked by physical play, Kristaps Porzingis returned after sustaining a bloody gash to his forehead, finishing with 20 points and 10 rebounds. Porzingis, who received five stitches after the game, was praised for his toughness. "I love my WWE moments," he said, referring to his willingness to play through injury. "We’re not going to let anybody punk us. We expect teams to do this kind of stuff... But we’re not going to take it. We’re going to hit them right back."
The Celtics' performance was particularly impressive given that this was the first playoff game Tatum had missed in his eight-year career. He sustained his injury during Game 1 after landing awkwardly following a hard foul by Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. Tatum, dressed in street clothes, was seen cheering from the bench, supporting his teammates.
Tempers flared during the contest, notably between Caldwell-Pope and Al Horford, who clashed after Caldwell-Pope tripped Horford behind the play. Referees reviewed the incident, ultimately ruling it a common foul. "It’s the playoffs, baby," Payton Pritchard remarked about the physicality. "It’s what it is. We knew what they were going to do, and that’s what I told Al after. It’s just fun. This is basketball now."
Boston led 50-47 at halftime despite shooting only 35% from the field and struggling from beyond the arc. However, they made up for it by getting to the free-throw line, converting 18 of 23 attempts in the first half alone. The Celtics’ ability to draw fouls was key against a Magic team that led the NBA in fouls drawn during the regular season.
As the game progressed, the Celtics found their rhythm. An 11-0 run in the third quarter, sparked by Brown and Porzingis, extended their lead and showcased their depth. Brown's ability to execute plays and create opportunities was pivotal, as he scored multiple baskets in quick succession to keep the Magic at bay.
Looking ahead, Game 3 is set for Friday night in Orlando, where the Celtics will aim to push the Magic to the brink in this best-of-seven series. Despite their success so far, Brown acknowledged the challenge that lies ahead: "Orlando’s a good team. I give credit to them. They play hard and they don’t go away, and they are very physical, and they are a good defensive team. So we do get up for that challenge, but we’ve just got to stay in the fight."
As the Celtics prepare for Game 3, the focus will be on maintaining their momentum while adjusting to the intense playoff atmosphere in Orlando. With Tatum's status still uncertain, Brown's leadership will be more crucial than ever in the coming games.
