Orlando Magic vs Boston Celtics

The Celtics dominated on the road this season, posting a 33-8 record away from TD Garden. While it was unexpected to see Boston drop Game 3 at Kia Center on Friday, this battle-hardened playoff squad knows how to bounce back.

The Magic have clearly rattled the Celtics with their relentless fight for every possession, but Boston’s superior talent remains undeniable, making them a strong choice to cover the spread here.

Jayson Tatum looked sharp returning from his Game 2 absence, and Boston’s 9-for-27 three-point shooting in Game 3 seems like an outlier, both in accuracy and attempts from deep.

On the other side, Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner carried Orlando with 61 of their 95 points in Game 3, but that heavy reliance feels tough to maintain. Expect Boston’s defense to tighten up and neutralize Orlando’s key scorers more effectively.

With a 27-6 record in their last 33 games, the Celtics carry a fierce resolve into Game 4. Don’t underestimate these reigning champions when they’re backed into a corner.

Despite Boston's offensive challenges in Game 3, Derrick White still managed to shine as a playmaker, dishing out five assists. He’s now hit five or more assists in 11 of his last 13 games. With Orlando’s defense keyed in on Tatum and Brown, White often finds himself in favorable one-on-one matchups, and I expect his passing to make a significant impact tonight.

Franz Wagner stepped up as an even more dynamic facilitator on Friday, leading the Magic with eight assists. His ability to penetrate and set up teammates is vital not only for getting Banchero involved but also for creating opportunities for Orlando’s struggling 3-point shooters. The Magic can’t rely on the same easy scoring chances as Boston’s stars, so Wagner’s playmaking will be crucial.