After an incredible battle two nights ago, the Boston Celtics and Orlando Magic are about to meet for the second game. But this time, the Celtics are positive that Kristaps Porzingis will be on the court to support them. The Celtics dominantly won their previous bout. They are currently ranked first in the Eastern Conference with a record of 19 wins and 5 losses.
Hands up for another home W 🙌🏽 pic.twitter.com/I5dC3Ul6po
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) December 16, 2023
It is quite a surprise seeing the Magic play as well as they are. Paolo Banchero is doing a great job leading the team along with Franz Wagner. They also have a solid roster built around them, so it would be fascinating to see how far this young team manages to reach during the playoffs. They are ranked fourth in the East with a record of 16 wins and 8 losses. Both teams will face off at the TD Garden.
Kristaps Porzingis is available to start for the Celtics vs. Magic game
The Latvian superstar will appear alongside his Celtics teammates to help continue the win streak of four games. Kristaps Porzingis did not play against the Magic during their previous game due to a calf injury. However, Delano Benton is expected to be sidelined as he is facing an illness at the moment. Luke Kornet will miss about a week’s worth of games due to a thigh injury.
The Magic will be taking some damage as Joe Ingles is listed as questionable for tonight’s game. Unfortunately, Wendell Carter Jr. will miss the game due to a finger ailment. He has been averaging 9.4 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game as they’re starting center. Markelle Fultz (knee) will most likely miss the game while Jalen Suggs did not participate in team practice due to an undisclosed reason.
It’s a Sunday matinee in Boston as the Magic look to hand the Celtics their first home loss of the season 🏀@TylerCaron_ will get you started on @969gameon with pregame at 2:30 P.M.
The voice of the Magic @JakeChapmanOM has got your call at 3 P.M.
Tune in! #MagicTogether pic.twitter.com/4Zx5AmPe5A
— Orlando Magic Audio Network (@OM_AudioNetwork) December 17, 2023
Boston Celtics Injury Report:
- Dalano Banton (Questionable)
- Luke Kornet (Out)
Boston Celtics Expected Lineup:
- Jrue Holiday
- Derrick White
- Jaylen Brown
- Jayson Tatum
- Kristaps Porzingis
Orlando Magic Injury Report:
- Joe Ingles (Questionable)
- Wendell Carter Jr. (Out)
- Markelle Fultz (Doubtful)
- Jalen Suggs (Questionable)
Orlando Magic Expected Lineup:
- Cole Anthony
- Gary Harris
- Franz Wagner
- Paolo Banchero
- Jonathan Isaac
Will the Magic surpass the Celtics in Kristaps Porzingis’ presence?
In a nutshell, Kristaps Porzingis is having an outstanding year despite being the third option on the Celtics’ roster. He is currently averaging 19.1 points, 6.6 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.6 blocks per game. This along with Jayson Tatum’s 27.5 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game is a complete game-changer. In the East, the Celtics are far more a simple threat. They have the best odds of winning the title.
BOSTON CELTICS BASKETBALL!
Lindo. Lindo. Lindo!pic.twitter.com/f63OEQXOln
— Coast to Coast Brasil | NBA (@brasilcoast2) December 16, 2023
The Magic is quite a competitive team. Based on how things were during the last game, Orlando may have learned a thing or two about the Celtics. Wagner and Banchero must have over-the-top games in terms of scoring this time. One of the Celtics’ biggest strengths happens to be offense. The Celtics are a better team on paper.