The Boston Celtics will face the Orlando Magic on Friday at the Kia Center with several key players sidelined. Jayson Tatum remains out following right Achilles surgery, and Xavier Tillman will miss the game for personal reasons. Two-way players Max Shulga and Amari Williams are also unavailable.
Boston enters the matchup with a 4–5 overall record but leads East Group B at 1–0. The team continues to rely strongly on Jaylen Brown, who is averaging 27.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 4.3 assists across nine games this season.
The Magic report a lighter injury list. Moritz Wagner is recuperating from a left knee injury but could return soon. Orlando holds a 3–5 record and is preparing for its first contest in East Group B.
Boston has dropped two of its last three games, including a narrow 103–105 loss to Utah. The Magic are looking to rebound after a 112–127 defeat in Atlanta. Both sides have shown inconsistency, making this matchup difficult to predict despite the Celtics’ lead in group standings.
Friday’s tip-off is set for 7:00 PM ET at the Kia Center in Orlando.
Summary: The Celtics enter Friday’s NBA Cup game short-handed but still top East Group B, while the Magic aim to regain momentum with a leaner injury report.