In a gritty Day 5 of the NBA playoffs, injuries disrupted key players as Jayson Tatum sat out and Jimmy Butler suffered a pelvic contusion. The Boston Celtics managed to secure a 2-0 series lead against the Orlando Magic, aided by a resilient Kristaps Porzingis, who returned after a bloody incident on the court. Coach Joe Mazzulla praised Porzingis' toughness, highlighting the physicality that has become a hallmark of this postseason.

The Cleveland Cavaliers also shined, setting a playoff record with 11 three-pointers in a single quarter, leading to a 2-0 advantage over the Miami Heat. Meanwhile, the Houston Rockets leveled their series against the Golden State Warriors, largely due to Jalen Green's impressive 38-point performance. Upcoming matchups are set, with teams competing to gain critical advantages in their playoff series.

In a tightly contested Game 2 of the playoffs, the Boston Celtics showcased their resilience in a 109-100 victory over the Orlando Magic, extending their series lead to 2-0. Jayson Tatum's absence due to a physical foul in Game 1 was a concern, but the Celtics showed grit. Al Horford faced rough play from Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, a theme throughout the match, as both teams engaged in a physical battle.

Despite the aggressive style of the Magic, Kristaps Porzingis remained unbothered, asserting the Celtics' determination to not be dominated. Payton Pritchard emphasized the playoff nature of the game, highlighting the need for toughness. Head Coach Joe Mazzulla encouraged his players to maintain focus, asserting that their response to the Magic's physicality should be to play as a cohesive unit, focusing on execution and toughness. As they prepare for Game 3 in Orlando, the Celtics aim to carry this momentum forward amidst the heightened stakes.

Kristaps Porzingis showed resilience despite suffering an elbow injury during the Celtics' Game 2 victory over the Orlando Magic. After receiving five stitches from a collision with Goga Bitadze, he returned to the court, finishing with 20 points and 10 rebounds. His determination to play through the pain highlighted his competitive spirit, especially with Jayson Tatum sidelined due to injury. The Celtics needed his contributions as they navigate the playoffs, and Porzingis responded well, drawing fouls and hitting free throws while also making defensive plays with two steals and blocks.

Boston's frontcourt depth has been tested, and Porzingis's ability to adapt to physical play will be crucial moving forward. As the playoffs heat up, he'll need to maintain this level of assertiveness and protect the rim effectively to keep the Celtics on track for a deep run.

Kristaps Porzingis showcased his toughness in the Celtics' 109-100 victory against Orlando, playing through a gash inflicted by Goga Bitadze that required stitches. This incident added to Porzingis' history of on-court injuries this month, yet he embraced the moment, stating he loves engaging with the crowd. The Celtics took a commanding 2-0 lead in their playoff series despite Jayson Tatum's absence due to injury. Jaylen Brown stepped up with 36 points and 10 rebounds, supporting Porzingis' near triple-double performance.

Joe Mazzulla applauded Porzingis for his resilience, and the Celtics remained poised against the Magic's physicality, with the Celtics’ collective effort making it clear they won’t be intimidated. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope attempted to rattle the Celtics, but his performance fell flat as he struggled with just three points. Porzingis affirmed their strategy to respond to provocation without losing composure, demonstrating the Celtics' focus on gameplay rather than getting drawn into physical altercations.

In a gritty Game 2, Kristaps Porzingis showcased both resilience and flair as he battled through injury, contributing 20 points and 10 rebounds to lead the Boston Celtics to a 109-100 victory over the Orlando Magic. After taking a brutal elbow to the face from Goga Bitadze, Porzingis left the court with a severe cut, requiring five stitches. However, he returned to the game, relishing the opportunity to engage with the raucous TD Garden crowd, who chanted his name.

With Jayson Tatum sidelined due to injury, the Celtics leaned heavily on Jaylen Brown, who stepped up with a stellar performance, scoring 36 points and grabbing 10 rebounds. As the series unfolds, the Celtics are embracing the physical style of play that has characterized their matchups, determined to not back down from challenges from the Magic.