Magic’s Winning Streak Faces Ultimate Test in Boston Without Key Stars

The Orlando Magic travel to TD Garden for a showdown with the Boston Celtics on Sunday, November 23. Tip-off is set for 6:00 PM ET. The Magic arrive with momentum from a three-game winning streak and a solid 10-7 record. However, they will be severely short-handed for this critical Eastern Conference matchup.

Star forward Paolo Banchero remains out with a left groin strain. Starting guard Jalen Suggs is also sidelined for knee injury management. Their absence puts immense pressure on the remaining Orlando roster to maintain their recent form against a talented, if inconsistent, Celtics squad.

Wagner’s Heroics Must Continue Against Stout Defense

Franz Wagner is coming off a spectacular 37-point performance in Friday’s win over New York. His efficiency and clutch scoring have been the engine of Orlando’s recent success. The German forward will need to replicate that effort to compensate for the missing firepower.

According to ESPN’s game analysis, the Celtics’ defense presents a much stiffer challenge. Boston will likely assign Jaylen Brown or another strong defender to shadow Wagner all night. How Wagner navigates this attention will dictate Orlando’s offensive flow.

The Magic’s role players must step up. Contributions from Wendell Carter Jr., Cole Anthony, and the bench will be non-negotiable. Boston excels at exploiting weakened rotations, so Orlando’s depth will be tested from the opening whistle.

Betting Lines and Season Implications

Despite their .500 record, the Celtics are favored by approximately 3.5 points at home. Sportsbooks clearly factor in Orlando’s significant injury report. This line sets up an intriguing value proposition for bettors considering the Magic’s current form.

A win for Orlando would be a major statement. It would prove their system and depth can compete with top-tier teams even without their best player. For Boston, this game is about stabilizing their season and defending their home court to climb the standings.

The head-to-head history adds another layer. Boston leads the series 7-4 over the last three years, but the teams split their two meetings earlier this month. This suggests another close, competitive game is on the horizon, regardless of who is available to play.

The Orlando Magic have shown remarkable resilience during their win streak. Overcoming the Boston Celtics on the road without Banchero and Suggs would be their most impressive victory yet, cementing their status as a legitimate playoff contender in the East.

Thought you’d like to know

What time is the Orlando Magic vs. Boston Celtics game?

The game tips off at 6:00 PM Eastern Time on Sunday, November 23. It will be played at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts.

Who is injured for the Orlando Magic?

Paolo Banchero is out with a left groin strain. Jalen Suggs is also out for left knee injury management. Wendell Carter Jr. was listed as questionable with ankle soreness.

How can I watch or stream the game?

The game will be televised locally on NBC Sports Boston and Bally Sports Florida. It is also available for streaming on the NBA League Pass service.

What is the Celtics’ record this season?

Boston enters this game with an 8-8 record, placing them 10th in the Eastern Conference. They have struggled with consistency in the early part of the schedule.

Who won the last game between these teams?

The Boston Celtics won the most recent matchup on November 9th by a score of 111-107. Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 27 points in that victory.