The Orlando Magic find themselves in a challenging playoff series against the Boston Celtics, down 0-2. Lacking the firepower and experience of the defending champions, they must resort to a gritty, aggressive approach to compete. In Game 2, the Magic's physical play left its mark, with Jayson Tatum sidelined due to an injury from a hard foul and Kristaps Porzingis suffering a bloody gash from an elbow. The Magic's goal is to make the series as uncomfortable as possible for the Celtics, who thrive on their shooting prowess.

Despite their offensive shortcomings, highlighted by poor three-point shooting, Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner continue to shoulder the scoring load. The Magic's strategy hinges on disrupting Boston's rhythm and creating chaos on the court. With their backs against the wall, they aim to bring the fight back to their home crowd in Game 3, embracing the physicality necessary to shift the series in their favor.

The Boston Celtics proved their playoff mettle by overcoming the Orlando Magic, 109-100, in Game 2, even without star Jayson Tatum. Jaylen Brown stepped up massively, scoring 36 points, complemented by Kristaps Porzingis’ 20 points and 10 rebounds. Though the Magic's Paolo Banchero shone with 32 points, Orlando couldn’t capitalize on their chances, ending the night with an unsuccessful rally.

Despite a double-digit lead, the Celtics faced a fierce challenge, with the game becoming increasingly physical. Brown’s dynamic performance and Porzingis’ grit, playing through injury, were pivotal. The Celtics' strategy paid off as they capitalized on free throws, finishing 25-for-33 compared to Orlando's 15-for-24. The Celtics now lead the series 2-0, proving they can adjust and thrive in adversity.

Kristaps Porzingis has quickly endeared himself to Boston Celtics fans with his impressive resilience during the 2025 NBA playoffs. After taking a hard elbow to the forehead from Orlando Magic's Goga Bitadze, Porzingis returned to the game despite being bloodied and bandaged, even sinking a free throw just after medical attention. His determination helped lead the Celtics to a 109-100 victory over the Magic, giving them a 2-0 series lead.

Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla praised Porzingis’s toughness, highlighting how such displays help unify and energize the fanbase. The ovation he received upon returning to the court was a testament to the impact of his fierce commitment. Moments like these not only enhance his status within the team but also contribute to an evolving Celtics legend.

The Boston Celtics secured a 109-100 victory against the Orlando Magic in Game 2 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs, showcasing remarkable resilience without star forward Jayson Tatum, who is sidelined with a wrist injury.

Jaylen Brown took the spotlight with a stunning performance, posting 36 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists. The Celtics exhibited veteran composure, dominating the rebounding battle and demonstrating aggression at the free-throw line with 33 attempts, converting 25.

However, they struggled with three-point shooting, converting only 32.4% from deep, and were hampered by a lack of ball movement, recording just 17 assists. The officiating also played a role, raising concerns about how the aggressive play will be managed as the series continues.

The key question looms over Tatum's return. While the Celtics lead the series 2-0, the decision to rest him further could impact their performance on the road against Orlando, who will be desperate for a win to avoid falling deeper into a playoff hole.