Key Highlights:
Derrick White put on a postseason clinic, scoring 30 points to lead the Boston Celtics to a commanding 103-86 win over the Orlando Magic in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series on April 20, 2025.
While Jayson Tatum provided stability with 17 points, it was White’s offensive rhythm, floor leadership, and clutch shooting that set the tone for Boston’s series opener at TD Garden. The Celtics now hold a 1-0 series lead, with Game 2 scheduled for Wednesday night in Boston.
Derrick White’s 30-Point Show Stuns Orlando
White shot with confidence and purpose, making key buckets in transition and from deep. His ability to glide through the lane and finish at the rim was complemented by timely three-point shooting.
- Final Line: 30 points | 5 rebounds | 4 assists | 3 steals
- Shooting: 11-of-18 FG | 6-of-9 from three-point range
“He’s the X-factor we count on when things get tight,” said head coach Joe Mazzulla postgame. “Tonight, Derrick gave us separation and stability.”
Tatum Injury Scare: Flagged but Unshaken
Tatum had 17 points, but the night took a tense turn in the fourth quarter. With Boston up 89-73 and 8:28 remaining, Tatum soared for a dunk and was hit mid-air by Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. He fell hard on his right side and clutched his hand in pain.
After review, the foul was ruled flagrant, but Tatum stayed in the game despite missing both free throws.
“That was a big fall,” Tatum said postgame. “But I wasn’t coming out. We’ve worked all season for this moment.”
Bench Boost: Pritchard’s Spark
Payton Pritchard contributed 19 points off the bench, shooting 4-of-7 from beyond the arc. His energy and scoring punch gave Boston flexibility in rotations and kept the offensive tempo high.
Jaylen Brown Returns from Knee Injury
Returning from a knee injury that sidelined him for the final three regular season games, Jaylen Brown looked sharp in 31 minutes, finishing with 16 points on 6-of-14 shooting.
- First Quarter Impact:
- 4 points
- 2 rebounds
- 2 steals
- 1 assist
Brown showed explosiveness early, stripping Paolo Banchero and finishing on the other end, then later slicing through defenders for a left-handed layup.
Magic Struggle Despite Banchero’s Brilliance
Paolo Banchero was Orlando’s lone bright spot, finishing with 36 points and 11 rebounds. He got little support, however, as the Magic crumbled in the second half.
- Franz Wagner added 23 points
- Orlando committed 15 turnovers, leading to 24 Celtics points
- Outscored 30-18 in the third quarter
Despite leading at halftime by 1, the Magic faltered in the third quarter, unable to respond to Boston’s defensive pressure and fast-paced offense.
Key Stats Snapshot – Game 1
| Category | Celtics | Magic |
|---|---|---|
| Field Goals | 45% (38/84) | 41% (34/83) |
| 3-Point FG | 43% (16/37) | 27% (8/29) |
| Turnovers | 11 | 15 |
| Points off TO | 24 | 10 |
| Fastbreak Points | 18 | 6 |
What’s Next: Game 2 Outlook
- Game 2: April 23 at TD Garden
- Boston aims to extend the lead before the series shifts to Orlando
- Orlando will look to tighten up ball security and limit Boston’s perimeter game
Celtics Flex Depth and Defense
From White’s perimeter dominance to Tatum’s resilience and Pritchard’s bench lift, the Celtics showcased their full arsenal in Game 1. While concerns linger around Tatum’s fall, Boston looked every bit the title contender they’ve been projected to be.
Orlando, on the other hand, must regroup quickly to avoid falling into a 2-0 hole.
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