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USA Today via Reuters

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USA Today via Reuters

The Boston Celtics and the Orlando Magic will lock horns again in the second half of their two-tilt mini-series at TD Garden. This will mark their third meeting this season after splitting the last two games. However, the most recent win was secured by the C’s during Friday night’s 128-111 victory. With this victory, Boston snapped a four-game losing skid against the Magic while also improving their season record to 19-5.  The win was even more remarkable since the shorthanded C’s did it without a healthy Kristaps Porzingis, Al Horford, and Luke Kornet.

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However, after a humbling 17-point defeat, the Magic will look to avenge the previous game’s loss and gain the upper hand in the series. Will Kristaps Porzingis suit up tonight to help the Boston Celtics keep their four-game winning streak alive?

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Kristaps Porzingis is off the injury report

Good news for the Celtics since they won’t have to worry about frontcourt depth in tonight’s matchup. Kristaps Porzingis has been removed from the injury report ahead of Sunday’s rematch with the Magic. He first sustained a calf injury earlier in the season on November 26, ironically, against the Orlando Magic, which cost him four games. After returning on December 8, he appeared in three games before being sidelined once again for Friday’s game against Orlando. Moreover, Al Horford is also expected to return tonight after resting on Friday night.

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USA Today via Reuters

However, Boston will miss the services of their backup center, Luke Kornet, who is battling a left adductor strain and is expected to take the court by the end of the month. Moreover, Dalano Banton is a game-time decision due to a non-Covid-related illness.

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With Porzingis off the injury report, their starting lineup might look like – Kristaps Porzingis, Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum, Jrue Holiday, and Derrick White. However, if either Brown or Tatum decides to rest tonight, Sam Hauser may take their place.

Orlando Magic injury report and predicted starting lineup

On the other side of the court, Orlando is monitoring four players on the injury report. Joe Ingles (left ankle sprain) and Jalen Suggs (undisclosed) are listed as probable. However, the team will miss the services of Wendell Carter Jr. (finger) and Markelle Fultz (knee) for Sunday’s game against the Celtics.

Read More: Can the Boston Celtics Recreate the Success of the Iconic 2007–08 Team?

In the absence of Wendell Carter, Goga Bitadze has been acting as a center for the Magic. If Jalen Suggs misses tonight’s game, then Gary Harris might occupy his position as the starting guard. Therefore, Orlando’s starting five might look like this – Goga Bitadze, Gary Harris, Anthony Black, Paolo Banchero, and Franz Wagner.

Do you think the Orlando Magic will bounce back after Friday night’s loss? Let us know in the comments!

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Darshita Daga

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Darshita is an NBA Writer at EssentiallySports who is creating her own space in the spectrum of sport journalism. Darshita specializes in dissecting post-game interviews, trade, and contracts. Her appetite for literature, akin to her affection for the Milwaukee Bucks, knows no bounds. As a dedicated fan of the Cream City and a particular admirer of the Greek Freak, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Darshita's beat writing details every intricacy, even the critique. Her articles go beyond the box scores and game highlights, delving into the human stories behind the players, the franchises, and the unforgettable moments that make the NBA an unparalleled spectacle. Darshita's passion for the NBA extends beyond the written word, finding solace in the world of books.

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Ruth John

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