The Boston Celtics and Orlando Magic have faced off in the past—but never with stakes like these.
When the game begins on Sunday afternoon, it won’t just be about rankings or numbers. It’s a battle between mentor and protégé, legacy and rising ambition, a once-silent connection now turned into a fierce rivalry. Jayson Tatum against Paolo Banchero. Only one will advance.
The Tatum Effect Is Real
Banchero has been walking the path Tatum paved for years. The kicks? Same signature line. The offseason grind? Guided by Tatum himself. Their relationship? Strong—rooted in a shared connection with Celtics assistant Amile Jefferson, Banchero’s old coach at Duke and one of Tatum’s closest allies.
Early on, Banchero was given a straightforward but powerful piece of advice:
“As a top pick, sure, things might come easier at first. But you can’t let that mindset sink in. You’ve got to earn everything… nothing’s going to be handed to you. You’ve got to go get it.” — Banchero via Bobby Manning, Boston Sports Journal
And he did. After a breakout year, Banchero’s lifted Orlando from fringe contender to serious playoff threat. But Boston? They’re chasing banners, not moral victories.
A Season of Separation for Tatum
Tatum’s season has been nothing short of elite—borderline historic. He’s now the only Celtic other than Larry Bird to lead the team in total points, rebounds, assists, and steals across multiple seasons. (via Celtics on X)
Boston wrapped the regular season with 61 wins, boasting the league’s top offense and a top-three defense. They’re not looking back at last year—they’re locked in on raising the next banner.
And when Tatum faced Orlando this season? He reminded everyone exactly who runs the show: 26 points and a statement victory.
The Stakes Couldn’t Be Higher
Boston is chasing history—looking to become the first team to go back-to-back since the 2017–18 Warriors. Orlando, meanwhile, is still out to prove it belongs on this stage.
But don’t mistake competition for conflict. Between the stars, it’s all mutual respect—sharpened by the fire of postseason basketball.
“I’ve known Jayson since I was heading into college… the best way I can show him respect is by giving him my all and going at him every chance I get.”
— Paolo Banchero via Brett James on X
Tatum gets it. But he’s not here for nostalgia.
“It’s the playoffs. No friends out there. The only thing that matters is doing whatever it takes to help my team win.”
— Jayson Tatum via Noa Dalzell on X
Ready for War
Boston comes in as the clear favorite—armed with home court, battle-tested experience, depth, and championship pedigree. Orlando counters with hunger, youthful energy, and zero intimidation.
But at this stage, labels don’t matter. It’s about who steps up when the lights are brightest.
“We’re not defending a championship—we already won that. Nobody can take it from us.”
— Tatum via Celtics CLNS
For Tatum, the message is simple: the past doesn’t matter. The focus is all on the present.
“We’re not worried about anyone but the Magic right now.”
— Tatum via Bobby Manning