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Celtics Injury Report: Tatum Doubtful, Brown and Holiday Questionable
The Celtics might be shorthanded heading into Game 3. Jayson Tatum (wrist) is listed as doubtful, while Jaylen Brown (knee) and Jrue Holiday (hamstring) are questionable. Despite these concerns, Boston has shown its depth early in the series.
In Game 2, Jaylen Brown exploded for 36 points and 10 rebounds, while Derrick White added 17 points, 6 boards, and 5 assists. Brown leads the Celtics with 26 PPG in the playoffs so far.
Magic’s Stars Need to Shine at Home
The Magic are 0-2 for the second straight postseason, but home court may be their advantage. Orlando has won four straight home games against Boston heading into Friday.
Paolo Banchero has been sensational, averaging 34 points, 10 rebounds, and 5.5 assists in the first two games. He dropped 32 points in Game 2 and is showing why he’s Orlando’s go-to guy.
Franz Wagner is another key contributor, scoring 25 points in Game 2. He has now scored 20+ in 14 of his last 15 games.
SportsLine Prediction: Model Leans Over, Celtics to Cover
According to SportsLine’s proven simulation model, which has simulated the game 10,000 times, the pick is leaning Over 197.5 total points. The model also shows Boston covering the spread in nearly 60% of simulations.
Over the past six seasons, SportsLine’s top-rated NBA picks have returned over $10,000 in profit for $100 bettors.
Betting Odds for Celtics vs. Magic Game 3
- Point Spread: Celtics -4.5
- Moneyline: Celtics -187 | Magic +156
- Over/Under: 197.5 Points
- Streaming: Watch on FuboTV (Free trial available)
Final Prediction: Celtics Win, But Magic Will Fight
With uncertainty around Tatum and Brown, this could be Orlando’s best shot to steal a win. But Boston’s depth and playoff experience make them the safer pick.
Final Score Prediction: Celtics 105, Magic 99
Best Bet: Over 197.5
