The Boston Celtics are speaking out against the Orlando Magic’s aggressive playing style in their playoff series, saying it’s crossing a line and disrupting the game. Jayson Tatum, Kristaps Porzingis, and Jaylen Brown all had run-ins with Magic players who committed flagrant fouls, including dislocated fingers and forehead injuries.
In Game 3, the Magic won 95-93, with Franz Wagner leading the way with 32 points. The Celtics’ physicality was evident as they struggled to contain the Magic’s full-court press, which led to 26 points for Orlando.
“We believe it’s over the line,” Brown said after the game. “It feels like we’re not even playing basketball anymore.”
Porzingis agreed, saying that the Magic’s behavior is “borderline” and that some players are getting away with excessive contact.
The Celtics’ physicality was also on display as they committed a season-high 21 turnovers in Game 3. Despite their struggles, Boston’s Tatum played through pain and scored a game-high 36 points.
Orlando’s physicality has been a problem for the Celtics all series long. In fact, the Magic have won two of three meetings this season, with their length and switching defense causing problems for Boston.
“It’s definitely affected us,” Brown said. “But we’ll be ready for Game 4.”
The Celtics are looking to regroup and bounce back in Game 4 on Sunday.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44861538/after-game-3-loss-celtics-again-question-magic-physical-play