Jaylen Brown of the Boston Celtics is facing injury challenges as the team pushes through the playoffs. After sustaining a bone bruise in his right knee, he now deals with a dislocated finger due to a flagrant foul from Cole Anthony during the Celtics' narrow loss to the Orlando Magic. Brown expressed frustration over the physical play, suggesting it’s escalating beyond the game itself. Despite the injury, he managed to score 19 points but acknowledged issues like ball control, contributing to the Celtics' turnover problems.

In a series marred by physicality, the Celtics lead 2-1 against the Magic, with both teams already dealing with significant injuries, including those of Jayson Tatum and Kristaps Porzingis. Brown’s comments indicate his readiness to face the physical challenge in Game 4 while also calling for better officiating to manage the intensity on the court.

The Golden State Warriors and Orlando Magic have officially clinched their spots in the NBA playoffs after impressive victories in the Conference play-in games. The Warriors edged out the Memphis Grizzlies 121-116, propelled by a stellar performance from Stephen Curry, who scored 37 points. Jimmy Butler III praised Curry, likening him to a superhero for his ability to perform under pressure. Meanwhile, Cole Anthony led the Magic to a dominant 120-95 win against the Atlanta Hawks, scoring 26 points off the bench. As a result, the Warriors will face the Houston Rockets, while the Magic will go up against the Boston Celtics in the first round.

Paolo Banchero, despite underwhelming shooting stats, made a significant impact in the Orlando Magic's Play-In Tournament win against the Atlanta Hawks, contributing with 17 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists. His ability to facilitate and draw fouls helped the Magic secure a 120-95 victory, earning them the seventh seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs. Notably, Banchero set the tone early, leading his team to a 32-17 first-quarter edge without making a field goal, finding teammates like Cole Anthony and Anthony Black for open looks. Coach Jamahl Mosley praised Banchero's playmaking and defensive efforts, highlighting the unseen elements that contributed to the team's success.

The Orlando Magic secured the No. 7 seed in the Eastern Conference by defeating the Atlanta Hawks 120-95 in the play-in tournament. Cole Anthony led the team with 26 points off the bench, contributing significantly to their playoff push. The Magic will face the Boston Celtics, the reigning champions, in the first round starting Sunday. This matchup promises to be intriguing as Orlando managed to clinch two victories against Boston earlier in the regular season.

Despite a strong performance, the Hawks struggled to maintain momentum after Trae Young's ejection in the fourth quarter. Orlando controlled the game, especially in the final period, outscoring Atlanta 41-22. Players like Wendell Carter Jr. and Paolo Banchero also shined, showcasing their potential as the team heads into the playoffs.