Franz Wagner scores big, Paolo Banchero takes on a lot of responsibility – but even without Jayson Tatum, it’s not enough against a focused Celtics team. Boston controls Game 2 for long stretches and extends its series lead. The Celtics win 109-100.
Boston had to do without Jayson Tatum – and still found enough ways to win. Jaylen Brown took over the offensive lead with 36 points and ten rebounds, while Kristaps Porzingis defied a laceration on his head to contribute 20 points. The Celtics relied on physicality, depth – and efficiency in crunch time.
The Magic held their own for a long time. Paolo Banchero scored 32 points, Franz Wagner had 25 points – but only one hit from seven attempts from the three-point line. Overall, Wagner consistently looked to drive to the basket (9/13 from the two-point range), but couldn’t hit his three-pointers.
Boston built a double-digit lead in the third quarter but faltered again when Orlando turned up the heat. However, Brown took over again in the final minutes, supported by Derrick White, who contributed a total of 17 points, many of them in the final quarter.
Celtics vs. Magic: Porzingis forced to leave the game with a laceration
Several scenes away from the game caused excitement: Kristaps Porzingis had to leave the court with a bleeding forehead after a collision with Goga Bitadze, but later returned with a bandage and loud applause. The game was physical anyway: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope was booed every time he touched the ball after knocking Tatum down in Game 1. A scene involving Al Horford caused another stir, but was ruled a normal foul.
Despite all of Orlando’s energy and the absence of their superstar Tatum, the Celtics remained stable and took Game 2 as well. The series now moves to Florida, where Boston will have to plan with a lot of confidence but possibly still without Tatum. And Orlando is hoping that strong individual performances like Wagner’s will soon be enough to secure a victory.
