The first-round series between the Boston Celtics and Orlando Magic has devolved into a grind-it-out, physical battle. Boston, the East's No. 2 seed, currently holds a 3-1 lead after a 107-98 Game 4 victory on Sunday, but their firm lead in this series hasn't come without costs.
Boston opened Game 4 in control, building a 53-48 halftime advantage behind Tatum's hot start. He finished with 37 points, 14 rebounds, three assists and three steals, leading all scorers and again asserting himself as the Celtics' offensive fulcrum. The Celtics also had help from Jaylen Brown, who chipped in 21 points and 11 boards, while Kristaps Porzingis and Derrick White combined for 37 points in the hard-fought win.
Through the series, the Celtics have endured some injury issues. Tatum suffered a right wrist injury in Game 1, forcing him to miss Game 2. Kristaps Porzingis suffered a forehead laceration in Game 2, but has remained fit to play. There were also injuries to Jrue Holiday, whose right hamstring strain sidelined him for Games 3 and 4, while Jaylen Brown confirmed that he dislocated his index finger in Game 3.
After Sunday's game, head coach Joe Mazzulla was asked if the Magic's physicality was crossing the line.
"No one's been arrested," Mazzulla responded, a comment that has since sparked reactions among fans on social media
— Taylor Snow (@taylorcsnow) April 27, 2025
"The only real one in Boston," one fan wrote.
"Top 3 best coach in the NBA," another applauded
"This man is clinically insane and I absolutely love it. What a perfect coach for this group of guys," another posted.
"Thank god this man dedicates all his time to coaching basketball, without this he'd be a straight up menace to society," one fan said.
Game 5 is set for Tuesday at TD Garden, and the Celtics will hope to close out the series in front of their home crowd.
