The Boston Celtics will start their three-game road stretch on Friday night, facing the Orlando Magic in the first of two back-to-back games. The matchup, scheduled for 7 p.m. at the Kia Center in Orlando, is part of the NBA Cup Group B competition.
Friday's game counts toward the NBA Cup Group B standings, while the Celtics' following game against the Magic on Sunday does not. Boston recently secured a convincing 136-107 victory against Washington but has stumbled twice in their last three outings.
The Orlando Magic's recent form has been weak as well, with losses in five of their last seven games, including a defeat to Atlanta on Tuesday.
“Friday’s game is an NBA Cup Group B game, while Sunday’s contest is not.”
“Xavier Tillman will be out for the Celtics on Friday for personal reasons, and Orlando’s Moritz Wagner (knee) will also be unavailable.”
Summary: The Celtics start a crucial road trip with an NBA Cup game against the Magic amid mixed recent results and notable player absences on both sides.