Celtics Soar Past Magic, Pistons Keep Knicks at Bay: Eastern Conference Semifinals Set
Celtics Book Semifinals Ticket with Resounding Victory
The Boston Celtics have punched their ticket to the Eastern Conference semifinals after a convincing 107-92 victory over the Orlando Magic, clinching the series 4-1.
<blockquote "Jayson Tatum scored 35 points, distributed 10 assists, and captured eight rebounds," said Magic coach Jamahl Mosley. "He was the main difference today."
Tatum’s monster performance was complemented by 23 points from Jaylen Brown, as the Celtics overcame a 9-point first-half deficit and outscored the Magic 67-42 in the second half.}
Magic’s Banchero Fouls Out, Tips Game
Orlando’s Paolo Banchero, who led all scorers with 29 points in Game 4, was disqualified with 6:51 left in the third quarter, leaving the Magic shorthanded. Celtics capitalized on his absence, going on a 31-9 run to take an 83-62 lead.
Pistons Force Game 6 against Knicks
In the other Eastern Conference first-round series, the Detroit Pistons stayed alive with a 106-103 win over the New York Knicks, tying the series 3-3. Game 6 is scheduled for Thursday night in Detroit.
Detroit’s Resilience Impresses
Led by Cade Cunningham’s 24 points, 8 rebounds, and 8 assists, the Pistons overcame a dismal home record in the postseason, snapping their 10-game losing streak with the victory. The young guard expressed his team’s confidence, “We are confident. We will return.”
Knicks’ Playoff Woes Continue
The Knicks struggled to overcome a slow start, despite Karl-Anthony Towns’ and Mikal Bridges’ 17-point contributions each. Jalen Brunson scored only 16 points on 4-of-16 shooting, marking his worst postseason outing.