Orlando Magic Advance to Face Boston Celtics in Playoffs After Strong Play-In Win
The Orlando Magic secured a playoff berth by defeating the Atlanta Hawks 120-95, setting up a first-round series against the Boston Celtics.
Orlando, however, is a poor shooting team, particularly from 3-point range.
Magic slow Hawks, but flaws could doom Celtics series
USA TODAY·3d
·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.CenterThis outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.Earning the Eastern Conference’s seventh seed after a 41-41 regular season, the Magic will start their first-round playoff series at Boston on Sunday.
Anthony, Magic claim 7th seed with 120-95 win over Hawks in Play-In Tournament
Associated Press·3d
·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.CenterThis outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.The Magic got big nights from several of their supporting characters on Tuesday (26 points from Cole Anthony, 19 from Wendell Carter Jr., 16 from Anthony Black).
Celtics’ first-round playoff matchup set after Magic win play-in game
Boston Herald·3d
·Mostly ReliableThis source is generally reliable but sometimes includes opinion, propaganda, or minor inaccuracies.Leans RightThis outlet slightly leans right.
Summary
The Orlando Magic triumphed over the Atlanta Hawks 120-95 in the play-in tournament, clinching the seventh seed in the Eastern Conference. Cole Anthony led the Magic with 26 points, while Paolo Banchero contributed 17 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists. The victory sets up a first-round playoff matchup against the Boston Celtics, the reigning champions. Trae Young led the Hawks with 28 points but was ejected late in the game. Orlando will need strong contributions from Banchero and Wagner against the Celtics, noted for their offensive prowess. Game 1 is on Sunday.
Perspectives
The Orlando Magic, seeded seventh in the Eastern Conference, face a challenging first-round playoff matchup against the Boston Celtics, the reigning champions.
Orlando's strength lies in its elite defense, rated second in the NBA, which could counter Boston's high-powered offense.
The performance of Magic's bench could be crucial as they seek to upset the Celtics, especially with key starters needing to elevate their games.