Celtics to Face Magic Shorthanded in Frontcourt
The Boston Celtics will be missing a key frontcourt player as they prepare for their second NBA Cup game against the Orlando Magic on Friday at 7 p.m. EST at the Kia Center.
Injury and Roster Updates
- Xavier Tillman will be unavailable due to personal reasons.
- Rookies Amari Williams and Max Shulga are currently with the Maine Celtics.
- The Magic will miss Moritz Wagner as he recovers from a torn ACL.
Previous Performances and Matchup Notes
The Celtics are currently 1-0 in NBA Cup group play after their victory over the 76ers last week, while the Magic have yet to play a Cup game.
Without Tillman, Boston will face a tough challenge containing Orlando's big man Paolo Banchero. In the first round of the 2025 playoffs, Banchero averaged 29.4 points per game against the Celtics in a series Boston won 4-1.
"Banchero averaged 29.4 points per game against the Celtics in the first round of the 2025 playoffs, a series the Celtics ultimately won 4-1."
During that series, Banchero dominated the boards, grabbing seven or more rebounds in four of the five games.
Outlook and Broadcast Information
The Magic will likely seek revenge after being eliminated by Boston and aim to solidify their status as a competitive team in the Eastern Conference. Meanwhile, the Celtics hope to maintain their winning momentum after a convincing win against the Wizards following a two-game win streak.
The Celtics vs. Magic game can be heard on 98.5 The Sports Hub with pregame coverage starting at 6:30 p.m.
Author’s Summary
The Celtics enter Friday's NBA Cup game against the Magic shorthanded in the frontcourt, facing a strong challenge in Paolo Banchero without Xavier Tillman.
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