Jaylen Brown’s Frustration with Officials in Celtics’ Loss to Magic
“I think in the fourth quarter, I think the officials made their point,” said Jaylen Brown, who was awarded just two free throws on Friday.
Background of Celtics and Magic Rivalry
Last spring, the Celtics and Magic faced off in a tough first-round playoff series, known for Orlando’s physical defense, which Boston repeatedly noted. Although the Celtics won the series in five games, it seemed to take a toll on them, contributing to their loss to the Knicks in the following round.
Team Changes and Recent Matchup
- The Magic have added Desmond Bane to improve their offense.
- The Celtics have shifted to a more scrappy, defensive underdog role.
The two teams met again on Friday night in an NBA Cup game. The Magic unleashed a hot shooting performance, hitting a season-best 17 of 36 three-pointers, which ultimately overwhelmed the Celtics.
Game Summary
The Celtics overcame an early 16-point deficit and led early in the fourth quarter but struggled in the final minutes, losing 123-110.
- Jaylen Brown led Boston with 32 points and nine rebounds.
- Payton Pritchard contributed 27 points.
- Franz Wagner led the Magic with 27 points, including a strong fourth quarter.
- The Magic finished with a 39-point fourth quarter, sealing their win.
“I didn’t feel like we got out-physicaled,” said Payton Pritchard.
The officials’ role in the game's final moments remains a sore point for Brown, highlighting tensions in this evolving rivalry.
Author’s summary: Jaylen Brown’s frustration with game officiating stood out in a Celtics loss defined by the Magic’s exceptional shooting and a physical, intense contest.