Kristaps Porzingis Sends Clear Message About Celtics Before Round 2

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Apr 30, 2025 5:06 PM ET

The Boston Celtics showcased their championship pedigree in Game 5, delivering a commanding 120-89 victory over the Orlando Magic to clinch the series 4-1. Despite trailing at halftime, the Celtics orchestrated a historic second-half performance, outscoring the Magic by over 30 points—a feat unprecedented in NBA playoff history.

Jayson Tatum led the charge with 35 points and 10 assists, while Jaylen Brown added 23 points, finding his rhythm in the latter half. The Celtics' defense intensified, effectively neutralizing Orlando's key players and forcing turnovers that translated into fast-break opportunities. Coach Joe Mazzulla's strategic adjustments, including exploiting defensive mismatches, played a pivotal role in the turnaround.

Starting center Kristaps Porzingis also contributed significantly to the team's interior defense and spacing on offense, despite finishing the night with just nine points and two rebounds.

Reflecting on the team's performance, Porzingis remarked, "I think we have a lot of room to grow. Honestly, I don't think we played our best basketball."

His clear message was shared by the Celtics on X.

We're just getting started pic.twitter.com/ImzbCAwgf0
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) April 30, 2025

Porzingis played all five games against the Magic, and averaged 12.0 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.8 steals. He suffered a minor setback in Game 2 after taking an elbow from Goga Bitadze in the third quarter that left him with a cut on his forehead. However, he was able to shake off the gash and finished the night with 20 points and 10 rebounds as the Celtics cruised to a 109-100 win.

With the Celtics now awaiting their second round opponent, they will hope to refine their play and maintain the high standards that have defined them all-season long.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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