Boston Celtics vs Orlando Magic Picks and Predictions April 29th 2025

Celtics Hold the Edge as Game 5 Returns to Boston

With a 3-1 lead in the bag, the Boston Celtics are back on home turf Tuesday night with one thing in mind—finishing what they started. After snagging two early wins at home, the Celtics dropped one in Orlando but quickly bounced back, securing a 107-98 win in Game 4. That puts them just one win away from advancing in the Eastern Conference Playoffs.

Sunday’s victory didn’t come easy, though. The game was deadlocked at 91 until Boston flipped the switch, closing with a decisive 16-7 run.

Jaylen Brown summed it up best:
“This was a big win on the road in a tough physical environment against a team that’s been hungry to knock us out… We’ll rest up and bring it back to our floor in Boston.”

You can see how NBA odds have shifted in Boston’s favor.

Magic Ready to Fight with Backs Against the Wall

The Orlando Magic aren’t rolling over just yet. They know what’s at stake—and they’re coming into Game 5 with urgency.

“They’re going to come out aggressive to try to close this series and get some rest,” said Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. “But for us, it’s desperation mode. We have to win to get to Game 6.”

Orlando’s been physical throughout the series—a gritty style that’s pushed Boston to play tougher. But despite matching intensity, they haven’t matched execution.

Take free throws, for example: Boston was nearly automatic in Game 4, going 30-for-32 from the line. Jayson Tatum nailed all 14 of his attempts, while Brown chipped in 9-of-10. In contrast, the Magic hit just 14 of 20.

Expert betting tips might tell you Boston’s efficiency at the line is a quiet game-changer.

Physicality, Fouls, and Frustration

The foul count has been a talking point for Orlando head coach Jamahl Mosley.
“They had 26 free throws before the final stretch. We attack the rim too, but we’re not getting the same calls,” he said.

Frustration aside, Orlando’s not without weapons. Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner have been lights-out, each scoring 23+ points in all four games. Banchero’s had three 30+ point games—numbers worthy of a Most Improved Player nod.

Franz Wagner is staying optimistic:
“It’s do-or-die. We’re flying to Boston with the right mindset. We believe we can force Game 6.”

And if they do? Game 6 heads back to Orlando, where the Magic have taken three of four against Boston this season.

Celtics Know the Job Isn’t Done Yet

Boston’s not counting chickens before they hatch.

“It’s not over,” said Brown. “We’ve gotta close them out because we don’t want to come back here.”

The Celtics’ eyes are on the prize. They’ve been challenged physically, forced to respond, and now have a golden opportunity to deliver the knockout punch.

Want to stay ahead of the next round? Keep an eye on NBA Championship odds, or check out the latest NBA picks and team stats.

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FAQs

How have the Celtics performed at home in the playoffs? Boston’s strong home record gives them a major edge in closing out the series in Game 5.

Who are the top scorers for the Magic? Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner have consistently led the charge, each scoring over 23 points in all four games.

Why was free-throw shooting so critical in Game 4? Boston’s 30-for-32 performance at the line, especially late in the game, helped seal the win.

What are the Celtics focusing on for Game 5? They’re aiming to stay physical, avoid unnecessary fouls, and maintain control on their home floor.

Could the Magic still win the series? It’s a steep climb, but if they win Game 5, momentum shifts and Game 6 is back in Orlando.

What’s next if Boston wins? The Celtics move on in the Eastern Conference, pushing one step closer to defending their championship title.