### Celtics' Journey to the Eastern Conference Semifinals: A Dominant Performance Against the Magic - The Boston Celtics have successfully advanced to the Eastern Conference Semifinals after defeating the Orlando Magic in a decisive Game 5, winning the series 4-1. This victory was marked by a commanding second half, where the Celtics outscored the Magic significantly, showcasing their championship pedigree. The Celtics will now face the winner of the New York Knicks vs. Detroit Pistons series, with the Knicks currently leading that matchup [https://www.boston.com/sports/boston-celtics/2025/04/30/boston-celtics-orlando-magic-jaylen-brown-paolo-banchero-foul-game-5]. ### Breakdown of the Celtics' Playoff Performance 1. **First Round Overview** - The Celtics eliminated the Orlando Magic in five games, clinching the series with a 120-89 victory in Game 5 [https://www.apnews.com/article/celtics-magic-nba-playoffs-score-d509e2065e455c02aa5faec981980639]. - Jayson Tatum led the charge with a stellar performance, scoring 35 points, along with 10 assists and 8 rebounds [https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44927215/jayson-tatum-35-point-night-helps-celtics-close-magic]. 2. **Key Moments in Game 5** - The turning point in Game 5 occurred when Magic star Paolo Banchero was sidelined due to foul trouble, which allowed the Celtics to dominate the second half [https://www.si.com/nba/magic/news/it-swung-the-game-how-paolo-banchero-5th-foul-took-orlando-magic-out-of-game-5-playoffs-nba-boston-celtics-jaylen-brown-franz-wagner-jamahl-mosley]. - The Celtics outscored the Magic 36-13 in the third quarter, showcasing their offensive prowess and defensive strength [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/celtics_advance_with_dominant_second_half_against_magic/s1_13132_42128593]. 3. **Player Highlights** - Jayson Tatum's performance was pivotal, as he not only scored but also facilitated plays, contributing to the overall team effort [https://www.local10.com/sports/2025/04/30/defending-champion-celtics-close-out-magic-120-89-for-4-1-playoff-series-win]. - Jaylen Brown also played a significant role, adding 23 points and emphasizing the team's collective effort in overcoming the Magic [https://www.boston.com/sports/boston-celtics/2025/04/30/boston-celtics-orlando-magic-jaylen-brown-paolo-banchero-foul-game-5]. ### Statistical Evidence of Celtics' Dominance - **Game 5 Statistics:** - **Final Score:** Celtics 120, Magic 89 - **Jayson Tatum:** 35 points, 10 assists, 8 rebounds - **Jaylen Brown:** 23 points, 6 rebounds - **Third Quarter Performance:** Celtics scored 36 points while holding the Magic to just 13 [https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/04/29/sports/celtics-magic-game-5-analysis]. ### Conclusion: Celtics' Path Forward - **Next Steps:** The Celtics are poised to continue their playoff journey, facing either the New York Knicks or the Detroit Pistons in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Their recent performance against the Magic has solidified their status as a formidable contender in the playoffs [https://www.masslive.com/celtics/2025/04/boston-celtics-advance-to-2nd-round-await-winner-of-knicks-vs-pistons.html]. - **Key Takeaway:** The Celtics' ability to dominate in the second half of games, particularly when capitalizing on opponents' foul troubles, will be crucial as they advance in the playoffs. Their championship experience and depth will be tested in the upcoming rounds [https://www.si.com/nba/celtics-make-nba-playoff-history-in-series-clinching-win-over-magic].