NBA Playoffs 2025: Boston Celtics vs. Orlando Magic Game 3 – Start Time, Injury Report, and How to Watch Live
Boston Celtics Hold Strong 2-0 Lead in NBA Playoff Series
The 2025 NBA Playoffs have delivered high-stakes action, and the first-round clash between the Boston Celtics and Orlando Magic is no exception. As the series shifts to Orlando’s Kia Center, the Celtics carry a commanding 2-0 lead over the Magic. If the Magic hope to keep their playoff dreams alive, they must win at home—and they must do it now.
Boston’s consistent performance over the first two games has set the tone. With playoff experience, star power, and championship pedigree, the Celtics have proven why they were among the favorites entering the postseason.
NBA Playoff Recap: Celtics Cruise in Game 1, Grind Out Win in Game 2
Game 1 showcased Boston’s defensive intensity and offensive firepower. The Celtics held Orlando to just 86 points while putting up 103, dominating the second half after a close first. The Magic struggled to match the Celtics’ pace and physicality, especially in the paint.
Game 2 was a much tighter contest. Orlando adjusted its defensive schemes and limited Boston’s fast breaks. But once again, the Celtics found a way to close strong. Jaylen Brown scored a stellar 36 points, stepping up in the absence of Jayson Tatum. His clutch shooting in the fourth quarter sealed a 9-point victory and gave Boston a 2-0 cushion.
These back-to-back wins put pressure on Orlando to respond. No team wants to fall behind 3-0 in a best-of-seven series—a hole that, historically, very few have escaped.
Jayson Tatum Injury Update: Will He Return in Game 3?
A key storyline heading into Game 3 is the injury status of Boston’s superstar Jayson Tatum. Tatum suffered a bruise to his right distal radius bone during Game 1 and was ruled out for Game 2. However, optimism surrounds his potential return.
The Boston Sports Journal shared footage of Tatum participating in a shootaround on Friday night, sparking hope among Celtics fans. While he remains officially listed as “questionable”, his presence in warmups suggests a strong possibility that he could play limited minutes or return in full capacity.
If Tatum suits up for Game 3, it could be a game-changer. His scoring, playmaking, and leadership provide a boost that few teams can match. For Orlando, preparing for both scenarios—Tatum playing or not—adds complexity to their defensive strategy.
Orlando Magic’s Must-Win Situation in Game 3
For the Orlando Magic, Game 3 is a win-or-watch-the-season-fade-away situation. While they showed signs of life in Game 2, they need more consistent offensive production and better perimeter defense to stop Boston’s deep roster.
Young stars like Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner must elevate their game in front of the home crowd. The Magic will also rely on their bench depth and defensive pressure to slow down Brown and potentially Tatum.
The Magic’s strategy will likely focus on containing Boston’s shooters and dominating the glass. Playing at home provides a psychological edge, and if the crowd gets into it early, the Magic could feed off that energy.
Boston Celtics’ Road Game Strategy: Close It Early
Boston enters Game 3 with a killer instinct. A win in Orlando would give them a 3-0 stranglehold on the series and put them on the brink of a sweep. The Celtics will look to strike early, silence the crowd, and apply pressure from the opening tip.
Coach Joe Mazzulla will likely continue to lean on Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, and veteran Al Horford while monitoring Tatum’s condition. The Celtics’ defensive identity, combined with efficient ball movement and clutch shooting, makes them difficult to beat—even on the road.
Celtics vs. Magic Game 3: Date, Time, and Location
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Matchup: Boston Celtics vs. Orlando Magic (Game 3 – NBA Playoffs 2025)
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Date: Friday, April 25, 2025
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Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
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Location: Kia Center, Orlando, Florida
This game is expected to be electric, and fans in Orlando will fill the Kia Center hoping to spark a comeback.
How to Watch Celtics vs. Magic Game 3 Live: TV Channels & Online Streaming
If you’re looking to catch the action live, here’s how you can tune in:
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Television Broadcast:
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Bally Sports Florida (for local Magic fans)
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NBC Sports Boston (for Celtics fans)
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ESPN (national broadcast)
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Live Streaming Platforms:
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FuboTV – Offers free trials and access to ESPN
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YouTube TV – Reliable streaming with cloud DVR
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Hulu + Live TV – Includes ESPN and sports add-ons
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These options make it easy to stream Celtics vs. Magic on mobile, tablet, smart TVs, or desktop—so fans don’t miss a second of the playoff drama.
What’s at Stake in Celtics vs. Magic Game 3?
Game 3 is more than just a must-win for the Magic—it’s a momentum-defining moment for both teams. For the Celtics, a win virtually seals their spot in the second round, allowing them to rest and recover key players like Tatum. For Orlando, a win breathes life into the series and puts pressure back on Boston for Game 4.
A 2-1 series feels much more manageable than a 3-0 deficit. The Magic will be fighting with everything they’ve got to avoid elimination territory.
Final Thoughts: Celtics Aim for Sweep, Magic Fight to Survive
The NBA Playoffs 2025 first-round series between the Celtics and Magic has already delivered some memorable moments. But as the series moves to Florida, all eyes are on whether Jayson Tatum returns and if the Orlando Magic can protect home court.
With Game 3 tipping off tonight, fans should expect a battle from start to finish. Boston wants to crush any hope Orlando might have, while the Magic want to prove they’re more than just a first-round speed bump.
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