It was another rock fight between the Boston Celtics and the Orlando Magic on Friday night. The Magic proved victorious with an 95-93 victory, and pulled the series back from the brink, keeping their NBA playoff hopes alive. Let’s look at some of the key player stats from this contest.
Big Time Performer: Orlando Magic F Franz Wagner
It was a massive night for the 23-year-old forward. Wagner recorded an impressive 32/7/8 stat line, including several clutch buckets in the fourth quarter. Orlando needed every point, every rebound, every assist to avoid a 3-0 deficit. Expect another big stat line on Sunday as the Magic try to even this series.
Big Time Performer: Boston Celtics F Jayson Tatum
It was a triumphant statistical return for Tatum after missing Game 2 with a wrist injury. That being said, he probably wanted a victory along with it. Nonetheless, 36/9/3 is a welcome sign after the injury. I’d expect another scoring outing in the 30-point range come Sunday.
Big Time Performer: Orlando Magic F Paolo Banchero
Another game, another big scoring performance from Paolo Banchero. Though he ceded control of the offense to Franz Wagner late in the game, his offense was crucial in keeping Orlando in the game. He’s now put up 36, 32, and 29 points across three games. He doesn’t seem to be stopping any time soon and will look to smash another points over/under come Sunday.
