The NBA Playoffs tip off in Boston as the Orlando Magic take on the top-seeded Celtics in Game 1 of their first-round series. Orlando enters as a heavy underdog, and with key injuries on both sides, this matchup could be slower-paced than expected. Below are our Magic vs Celtics predictions and picks, including model insights, injury updates, and the best odds to bet on.

Preview of Magic vs Celtics Prediction

Boston is expected to dominate Game 1, but the total is where sharp bettors may find value. With both teams dealing with injuries and defensive strengths on full display, this matchup sets up well for a low-scoring affair.

Model Score Prediction:
Celtics 109.3, Magic 95.2

This total projection sits well below the posted line of 206.0, making under 206.0 one of our top Magic vs Celtics best bets for Game 1.

Who is Favored to Win Magic vs Celtics?

Boston is the heavy favorite, as expected. While the Celtics are projected to win comfortably, our Magic vs Celtics predictions point to value in the total, not the spread. With Orlando struggling to score and Boston’s pace slowing down in playoff settings, the under offers better value than a side.

If you're betting Magic vs Celtics odds, the total is the sharper play in this spot.

Injury Reports for Magic vs Celtics

Magic Injuries:

• Moritz Wagner (Knee) – Out for Season
• Jalen Suggs (Quad) – Out for Season

Celtics Injuries:

• Jrue Holiday (Shoulder) – Day to Day
• Al Horford (Knee) – Day to Day
• Jaylen Brown (Knee) – Day to Day
• Derrick White (Neck) – Day to Day

Boston’s top contributors are expected to play, but lingering injuries could lead to a slower pace. Orlando is without two key players, which limits their offensive ceiling and reinforces our Magic vs Celtics prediction.

Magic vs Celtics Over/Under Betting Trends

Over/Under (Last 5 Games):
Magic: 3-2 O/U
Celtics: 2-3 O/U

Home/Away Over/Under Splits:
Magic Away: 2-1 O/U
Celtics Home: 1-2 O/U

Dog/Favorite Over/Under Trends:
Magic as Underdog: 1-0 O/U
Celtics as Favorite: 2-2 O/U

Despite Orlando going over in 3 of their last 5, Boston has consistently slowed games down at home. The average combined points from the model and recent games support a lean to the under.

Model Used for Magic vs Celtics Best Bets

This pick comes from a pre-built NBA model that evaluates efficiency, pace, recent form, and injuries. The model gives under 206.0 a 53.6 percent chance of hitting based on both teams' recent scoring trends and playoff adjustments.

For those seeking data-driven Magic vs Celtics picks, this total projection has a clear edge.

Best Odds for Magic vs Celtics

The best number for betting the total sits at under 206.0 (-105) at William Hill. Other books have the same total but at worse juice.

Magic vs Celtics best odds (Total 206.0):

• William Hill: Under 206.0 (-105)
• DraftKings/FanDuel: Under 205.5 (-110)
• PointsBet/SugarHouse: Under 206.0 (-111)

Line shopping is critical with such a tight edge on the total.

My Pick for Magic vs Celtics

Pick: Under 206.0 (-105 at William Hill)

With playoff intensity, key injuries, and two defenses ranked in the top tier, Game 1 has the makings of a grinder. The model and trends point to a total in the low 200s, giving value on the under. It's one of the strongest Magic vs Celtics best bets available for Game 1.

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