UPDATE: The Orlando Magic are set to host the Boston Celtics not once, but twice this weekend, as part of the highly anticipated NBA Cup group stage. After being eliminated by the Celtics in the first round of last season’s playoffs, the Magic are eager to avenge that defeat starting tonight at the Kia Center at 7:00 PM ET.
“It wasn’t too long ago,” said second-year forward Tristan da Silva, reflecting on last season’s playoff exit. “There’s a little bit of history with the Celtics so it’s extra fuel to the fire.” The Magic will face their familiar Eastern Conference rivals again on Sunday, November 5, making this back-to-back matchup feel like a playoff series.
The Magic are looking to turn around their season following a 3-5 start, using this three-game homestand, which includes a matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday, as a crucial opportunity to string together wins. “We’re playing this team two times in three days,” said center Wendell Carter Jr.. “It’s an opportunity for us to come out, do what we do [tonight], and then make adjustments as needed.”
Tonight’s game marks the Magic’s debut in the NBA Cup, a new in-season tournament that adds an exciting twist to the regular season. The Magic, who reached the quarterfinals last year, are competing in East Group B alongside Boston, Detroit, Brooklyn, and Philadelphia. With a prize pool of $530,933 for the winning team, players are highly motivated. “Five hundred thousand on the line, everybody wants a piece of that,” Carter emphasized, noting the financial stakes involved.
Magic coach Jamahl Mosley echoed the importance of this tournament, stating, “Having a Cup game with the things that come with it, it’s good for this group.” The NBA Cup is seen as a way to keep players engaged throughout the long season, preventing it from becoming monotonous.
However, the Magic are aware that they need to improve their communication on the court. Carter stated, “It’s not an easy fix, it’s more of a simple fix.” He highlighted the need for better passing and ball handling, emphasizing that these fundamental improvements are essential to compete against elite teams like the Celtics.
“If we want to be able to win, especially against the better teams in this league, we have to be better at this,” Carter reiterated.
As the Magic gear up for this crucial weekend, fans are expected to fill the stands, eager to witness whether their team can turn the tides against a formidable opponent. Stay tuned for updates following tonight’s game as the Magic look to capitalize on their home-court advantage and make a statement in the NBA Cup.
Next up: Magic vs. Celtics
When: November 3, 2023, at 7:00 PM ET and November 5, 2023
Where: Kia Center
TV: FanDuel Sports Network Florida
