Celtics vs Magic Injury Updates Ahead of Friday’s NBA Cup Game
The Boston Celtics will face the Orlando Magic on Friday at the Kia Center without several key players, including Jayson Tatum. Tatum remains sidelined following surgery on his right Achilles, while Xavier Tillman is unavailable due to personal reasons.
Two-way players Max Shulga and Amari Williams are also ruled out. Despite the absences, Boston holds a 4-5 overall record and leads East Group B with a 1-0 mark.
Team Performance and Key Players
Jaylen Brown has carried much of the offensive load for Boston, averaging 27.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 4.3 assists across nine games this season.
For Orlando, Moritz Wagner continues to recover from a left knee issue. The Magic stand at 3-5 and will play their first East Group B contest. Paolo Banchero leads the team with 23.1 points and 9.5 rebounds per game, while Franz Wagner adds consistent output with 22 points and 5.5 rebounds per night.
Recent Form and Outlook
Boston has dropped two of its last three matchups, including a narrow 103-105 loss to Utah. Meanwhile, Orlando is coming off a 112-127 defeat in Atlanta. The inconsistency on both sides sets up an unpredictable matchup despite Boston’s stronger group standing.
- Boston’s road record: 2-2
- Orlando’s road record: 2-3
- Tip-off: 7:00 PM ET, Kia Center, Orlando
"Both teams have shown inconsistent form, making this matchup unpredictable despite the Celtics’ stronger group standing."
Author’s Summary
Boston enters Friday’s NBA Cup game short-handed but still in a favorable group position, while Orlando seeks momentum behind Banchero and Wagner’s leadership.