Jett Howard scores career-high, but shorthanded Magic lose vs. Celtics

The Orlando Magic are seeing their losing streak come to an end after falling xxx-xxx to the Boston Celtics at TD Garden.

The Magic began the game playing without Paolo Banchero (groin strain) and Jalen Suggs (injury management), but Wendell Carter Jr. and Goga Bitadze both were ruled out due to ankle injuries. This meant Orlando Robinson got the start at center, putting the Magic behind the 8-ball early.

On top of Orlando's injuries, the team was playing its third game in four nights after wins against the Los Angeles Clippers and New York Knicks at home. Meanwhile, the Celtics had a full day of rest, so they came into the game expected to win.

In the first quarter, the Magic fell behind early and they were forced to catch up. In the second quarter, they surrendered 48 points, taking a 23-point deficit into halftime. The Magic trailed by as much as 26 during the game.

In the second half, the Magic chipped away, especially in the fourth quarter when head coach Jamahl Mosley put in players like Jamal Cain, Jase Richardson, Noah Penda and Jett Howard. All four of them put in good minutes and even brought the Magic to within six points in the final minutes.

Unfortunately for the Magic, that was as close as they would get. The Celtics were able to put the finishing touches on the game to sink the Magic for their first loss since losing to the Houston Rockets in overtime a week ago.