Celtics to Be Shorthanded in Frontcourt Against Magic
The Boston Celtics enter their second NBA Cup matchup with a nearly clean injury slate, missing only one significant frontcourt player. Xavier Tillman, due to personal reasons, will not play when the Celtics face the Orlando Magic in Orlando on Friday night at 7 p.m. EST. This game marks the first of two straight contests at the Kia Center.
Boston’s rookies Amari Williams and Max Shulga remain assigned to the Maine Celtics, limiting frontcourt depth further.
On Orlando’s side, Moritz Wagner continues his recovery from a torn ACL and will also be unavailable.
Previous Meeting and Key Matchups
This will be Boston’s second NBA Cup game after their victory over the 76ers last week, giving them a 1-0 record in group play. The Magic are yet to make their Cup debut. Without Tillman, Boston may struggle against Orlando’s powerful forward Paolo Banchero, who caused challenges in prior matchups.
“Banchero averaged 29.4 points per game against the Celtics in the first round of the 2025 playoffs.”
In that playoff series, which Boston won 4–1, Banchero collected seven or more rebounds in four of the five games, dominating near the basket.
Team Outlook
The Magic will likely seek payback for last season’s playoff exit at the hands of Boston as they aim to solidify their standing among the Eastern Conference contenders. Meanwhile, the Celtics are determined to maintain momentum following a strong rebound performance with a blowout win over the Wizards.
Fans can listen to live coverage of Friday’s Celtics–Magic contest on 98.5 The Sports Hub, with pregame programming starting at 6:30 p.m.
Author’s Summary
Boston faces Orlando with limited frontcourt options as Xavier Tillman sits out, while the Magic look for revenge led by Paolo Banchero’s dominant presence.