Overview

• The Boston Celtics, aiming for back-to-back championships, open their first-round playoff series against the Orlando Magic at TD Garden on April 20.
• Orlando secured their playoff spot through the play-in tournament and boasts the NBA's second-best defensive rating but struggles offensively, ranking 27th in efficiency.
• Boston led the NBA in three-pointers made this season, contrasting sharply with Orlando's league-worst three-point shooting percentage and production.
• Celtics star Jaylen Brown is expected to play despite managing a knee injury that sidelined him for the last three regular-season games, raising concerns about his postseason readiness.
• NBA legend Magic Johnson predicted the Celtics would win the series in five games, acknowledging Orlando's potential to steal one victory.