Celtics Eye Back-to-Back Title as Playoffs Kick Off
Boston’s Defending Champions Aim High
The 2025 NBA playoffs are just around the corner, and the Boston Celtics, fresh off their 18th championship win last season, are ready to defend their title. As the third seed with a 61–21 regular season record, they’re not just aiming for the top—they’re prepared to stay there.
Celtics’ Solid Regular Season Performance
Boston finished the regular season with an impressive Offense Rating (ORTG) of 120.6 and a Defense Rating (DRTG) of 111.1, leading to a Net Rating (NETRTG) of 9.4—all of which contribute to their third-place ranking overall. They shot 36.8% from downtown, snagging the tenth spot in 3-point percentage. Home and away, the Celtics were alike in their dominance—showcasing an 80.5% win rate on the road and a 68.3% win rate at home.
*Home and Away Record:*
– Home: 28–13
– Away: 33–8
**Boston’s fortress on Defense**
Ranking second in the league in scoring defense, giving up just 107.2 points per game, the Celtics have clearly been a shutdown team throughout the regular season. Their defense is driven by an elite defense, where they hold opponents to an average of 108.0 points per 100 possessions.
*Scoring Defense*
– Points Allowed Average: 107.2
– Points Allowed per 100 Possessions: 108.0
**Head Coach Joe Mazzulla’s Approach**
Assistant Coach Joe Mazzulla, who led the team to their first championship since 2008, approached the playoffs with a balanced mindset: “Each series develops a life of its own, demands small adjustments, and needs a good balance between identity and adaptability,” he emphasized during a global Zoom call.
**Opening Round: Celtics vs. Orlando Magic**
In the first round, the Celtics will face the Orlando Magic, who qualified for the playoffs via the play-in tournament with a 41–41 record. Despite being seeded seventh, the Magic pose a threat with their young, defensive lineup that thrives on athletics and pressure.
**Magic’s Key Players and Injury Reports**
Under coach Jamahl Mosley, the Magic have developed a dynamic duo in **Paolo Banchero** (25.9 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 4.8 APG) and **Franz Wagner** (24.2 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 4.7 APG). Both players returned from significant injuries this season, with Banchero missing 34 games and Wagner missing 21. Unfortunately, the Magic will be without **Moritz Wagner** and **Jalen Suggs** due to season-ending injuries.
**Celtics’ Healthy Roster**
Heading into the playoffs, the Celtics have a fully healthy roster. **Kristaps Porzingis** (19.5 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 2.1 BPG) was a dominant force in the paint, while **Jayson Tatum** (26.8 PPG, 8.7 RPG, 6.0 APG) and **Jaylen Brown** (22.2 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 4.5 APG) led the team as usual. Despite slight statistical drops from last year’s playoffs, both stars are poised to lead the Celtics deep into the postseason.
*Points in the Paint Defense – Regular Season*
– 1. Thunder: 42.5 PPG
– 2. Warriors: 45.6 PPG
– 3. Magic: 45.7 PPG
– 4. Celtics: 46.0 PPG
**Champions versus Underdogs**
As defending champions, the Celtics enter the playoffs with a clear identity and high expectations. However, **Joe Mazzulla** warned, “Don’t be blinded by the details and the basics—they’re always top priority.” The Magic, with nothing to lose, will undoubtedly challenge Boston, but history is on the side of the green.
**Stay Informed: 247sports.news**
For more in-depth news expansion and expert analysis, visit [247sports.news](https://247sports.news).
**FAQs**
1. *Q: Which team were the Celtics playing in the 1st round of the playoffs?*
– A: Orlando Magic
2. *Q:What was the Celtics’ regular season record?*
– A: 61–21 (3rd seed)
3. *Q: Who is the Celtics’ head coach?*
– A: Joe Mazzulla
**Did you know?**
The Boston Celtics have won a record 18 championships in franchise history.
**Pro Tip**
Keep an eye on the Celtics’ defensive scheme against the Magic’s quick, athletic lineup.
**Call to Action**
Share your thoughts on the Celtics’ chances of winning back-to-back titles in the comments below, and explore more of our NBA playoff coverage!