For nine halves, the Boston Celtics and Orlando Magic exchanged blows in what was a physical first-round series. Despite a lack of offensive firepower, the Magic forced their way into close finishes against the Cs by “mucking up the game,” as they say.
Of course, there were less-than-pretty stretches for Boston throughout this series. The first half of Game 5 was a prime example. Orlando did a tremendous job of limiting the Celtics’ three-point attempts and creating extra possessions.
Boston attempted just six triples in the opening 24 minutes and made none of them. Meanwhile, the Magic attempted nine more total shots than the hosts, thanks to 10 offensive rebounds.