Sean Murphy - Boston Celtics vs Orlando Magic

Sean's 10* NBA EASTERN 1ST RD TOTAL OF YEAR!

Handicapper

Sean Murphy

League

NBA

Competition

Boston Celtics vs Orlando Magic

Release Date

04/27/2025 09:42 AM

Event Date

04/27/2025 07:00 PM

Bet Type

Over / Under

Pick

Boston Celtics vs Orlando Magic Over 196.5 (-110) (BetMGM)

Outcome

Win

Analysis

Eastern Conference First Round Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'over' between Boston and Orlando at 7 pm et on Sunday. While Game 3 saw both teams bogged down in a sluggish, low-scoring affair — combining for just 188 points — I’m expecting a bounce-back in scoring when the Celtics and Magic meet again for Game 4 on Sunday night. Friday’s 95-93 Orlando win saw Boston limited to a season-low 74 field goal attempts, but it's important to note that Boston has historically responded well offensively after extended shooting slumps. The Celtics have now been held to 37 or fewer made field goals in four straight games, matching their longest drought of the season. The last time that happened, they exploded for 139 points against Brooklyn in mid-November. While I’m not projecting quite that type of eruption here against Orlando’s stout defense, it sets up nicely for Boston to find its rhythm and lift the scoring environment. Orlando still faces heavy pressure trailing 2-1 in the series. In a similar spot in Game 2, we saw the Magic perform better offensively while chasing from behind, knocking down a series-high 39 field goals. If the Celtics take control again on Sunday, that could force Orlando to play a little faster and take more chances offensively, helping the 'over' cause. It won’t take an out-of-control shootout to surpass this relatively modest number. With Boston likely to come out with more purpose offensively and Orlando capable of contributing enough, we should see a higher-scoring contest than we did on Friday. Take the 'over'. Projected score: Celtics 107, Magic 102.