Jayson Tatum, Celtics Withstood Magic’s Late Comeback Attempt in 108-97 Win

Turnovers gave Boston an edge

Orlando struggled to handle Boston’s active defense and gave the ball away 18 times, including eight in the first quarter. Those turnovers led to 21 Celtics points, though only nine were live-ball takeaways.

The Magic had some success against Boston’s aggressive approach, but often looked hurried and out of sync. The mistakes limited their chances to build on their opportunities.

Rebounding kept Orlando close

Boston collected 14 offensive rebounds and turned them into 15 points. Orlando had 13 offensive boards for 12 points, and finished with a 68.1 percent defensive rebound rate, according to Cleaning The Glass.

The Magic won the possession battle, taking three more shots and seven more free throws. Even so, Boston’s work on the offensive glass helped keep pressure on Orlando.

Wagner facilitated the offense

Franz Wagner shot 5-for-20 but supplied 12 of Orlando’s 24 assists, with three turnovers. He continued to find teammates while defenses focused on him. Wagner showed patience in ball screens and when attacking closeouts, and his teammates benefited from his passing. His performance offered one bright spot in a difficult afternoon.

Late push fell short

Orlando had chances to tie or take the lead early in the fourth, but shot 7-for-24 in the period, or 29.2 percent. The Magic went 3-for-8 inside the restricted area and 2-for-9 from three-point range.

Desmond Bane and Tristan da Silva hit consecutive threes, and Bane added a steal and score to cut a 12-point deficit to four. Paul George’s wing three with 1:31 left helped Boston finish the 108-97 win.