The Boston Celtics won Game 2 against the Orlando Magic on Wednesday with a 109-100 victory. The Celtics were without their best player, All-Star forward Jayson Tatum. In Game 1, Tatum suffered a right distal radius bone bruise, which ruled him out.
Boston will need the production of the six-time All-Star for Game 3. They will be on the Magic's home court, at the Kia Center. Facing a hostile crowd could affect their performance.
After Game 2, Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla was asked about Tatum's return. The media was curious to learn if the one-time champion would be available for Game 3.
"No idea," Mazzulla said when asked when he thinks Tatum will return to play.
No updates on Jayson Tatum from Joe Mazzulla: pic.twitter.com/19HMizZDJc
— Justin Turpin (@JustinmTurpin) April 24, 2025
Fortunately for the fans, the Celtics released their injury report ahead of Game 3. Boston listed Tatum as doubtful against the Magic. They've also included veteran guard Jrue Holiday in the report. The defending champions listed Holiday as questionable due to a right hamstring strain.
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) April 24, 2025Injury Report for tomorrow at Orlando:
Jrue Holiday (right hamstring strain) - QUESTIONABLE
Jayson Tatum (right distal radius bone bruise) - DOUBTFUL
Due to Tatum's absence, All-Star forward Jaylen Brown took over for the Celtics. In Game 2, he finished with 36 points, 10 rebounds and five assists. Brown shot an efficient 71.4% from downtown.
For the Magic, the 32-point showing from Paolo Banchero wasn't enough. Banchero had an all-around performance, adding nine rebounds and seven assists. Even Franz Wagner had a sizeable contribution of 25 points on 50% shooting from the field.
The Magic will play in front of their home crowd for Game 3. They need to make the most of it and secure a win to get back in the best-of-seven series.
