Wagner and Banchero help Magic beat Celtics 95-93 to cut Boston's lead to 2-1
Franz Wagner's impressive 32 points and Paolo Banchero's 29 points led the Orlando Magic to a narrow 95-93 victory over the Boston Celtics, narrowing Boston's series lead to 2-1 in the Eastern Conference first-round. Jayson Tatum returned to the Celtics' lineup, contributing 36 points and nine rebounds, but his efforts were insufficient as Boston struggled offensively in the second half. The Celtics, who have an outstanding road record, failed to secure a win in Orlando and will face the Magic again at their home for Game 4. Despite Tatum's early dominance, the Celtics experienced a significant scoring drought, missing numerous shots and struggling from the three-point line for a critical portion of the game. A late-game rally by Boston was not enough as Wagner's key plays in the final minutes secured Orlando's victory.
Franz Wagner was a key player for the Orlando Magic, scoring 32 points, and along with Paolo Banchero's 29 points, they successfully led the team to a crucial win over the Celtics, reducing Boston's series advantage to 2-1.
Jayson Tatum returned to the Celtics' starting lineup after missing the previous game and had a standout performance with 36 points and nine rebounds, yet Boston failed to capitalize on his effort due to offensive struggles in the second half.
Despite having an impressive road record of 33-8, the Celtics are yet to win a game in Orlando this season, with the Magic hosting the next game in the series, providing them a chance to even the series.
A scoring drought saw Boston miss 17 of their next 19 shots and go 17 minutes without a successful three-point attempt during the second half, which allowed the Magic to seize control of the game.
The Magic executed a decisive 14-0 run in the third quarter, with Wagner and Banchero contributing significantly to this stretch, enabling them to take a substantial lead into the fourth quarter.
Derrick White managed to tie the game at 91 with a layup late in the fourth quarter, but Wagner's subsequent baskets, including a crucial layup, helped Orlando hold on to their lead and secure the win.
Boston played without Jrue Holiday, who was sidelined with a strained right hamstring, potentially affecting their defensive capabilities and depth during this tightly contested matchup.