The Boston Celtics are set to host the Orlando Magic on Sunday in the opening game of their Eastern Conference first-round playoff series at TD Garden. The Celtics concluded the regular season as the second seed, while the Magic had to earn their postseason berth through the play-in tournament, specifically by winning the 7-8 matchup against the Atlanta Hawks.
Although many analysts predict Boston to come out on top in this series and continue their quest to defend their NBA title, the Magic should not be underestimated. During the regular season, Orlando presented a strong challenge to Boston, winning two of the three head-to-head matchups. The Magic were one of just three Eastern Conference teams that managed to secure a regular-season series victory over the Celtics, led by Jayson Tatum.
Injury Reports for April 20
Orlando Magic:
The Magic enter Game 1 with two notable absences. Jalen Suggs and Moritz Wagner have both been ruled out due to left knee injuries. Their absence may affect the team’s depth and rotation.
Boston Celtics:
The Celtics are heading into the game with a clean bill of health. No players have been listed on the injury report, giving the team full roster availability.
Predicted Starting Lineups and Depth Charts
Orlando Magic Starting Lineup:
Point Guard: Cory Joseph
Shooting Guard: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
Small Forward: Franz Wagner
Power Forward: Paolo Banchero
Center: Wendell Carter Jr.
Magic Bench Depth:
Guards: Anthony Black, Cole Anthony, Gary Harris, Trevelin Queen, Jett Howard
Forwards: Caleb Houston, Jonathan Isaac, Jett Howard, Tristan da Silva
Centers: Goga Bitadze
Boston Celtics Starting Lineup:
Point Guard: Derrick White
Shooting Guard: Jrue Holiday
Small Forward: Jaylen Brown
Power Forward: Jayson Tatum
Center: Kristaps Porzingis
Celtics Bench Depth:
Guards: JD Davison, Payton Pritchard
Forwards: Sam Hauser, Al Horford, Baylor Scheierman, Jordan Walsh
Centers: Luke Kornet, Xavier Tillman, Neemias Queta
How to Watch the Game
The first game of the series will be held at TD Garden and is scheduled to begin at 3:30 p.m. Eastern Time (12:30 p.m. Pacific Time). Viewers can catch the action live on ABC. Additionally, fans can stream the game through NBA League Pass, YouTube TV, and Fubo, though availability may be subject to regional restrictions.