Head of the playoff showdown between the Boston Celtics and the Orlando Magic, Celtics star Jayson Tatum fired back at Paolo Banchero following the Magic forward’s pre-series remarks.

Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics reacts in the second half against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on April 08, 2025 in New York City. The Boston Celtics defeated the New York Knicks 119-117 in overtime.
© Elsa/Getty ImagesJayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics reacts in the second half against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on April 08, 2025 in New York City. The Boston Celtics defeated the New York Knicks 119-117 in overtime.

The Orlando Magic capitalized on their opportunity against the Atlanta Hawks, clinching a spot in the NBA Playoffs. Their next challenge?

A first-round matchup against the defending champions, the Boston Celtics, who finished the regular season as the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference.

Following the win over Atlanta, Magic star Paolo Banchero shared his excitement about the upcoming series—and Celtics forward Jayson Tatum didn’t hesitate to respond.

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Orlando turned in a strong performance to punch their ticket to the postseason, but all eyes are now on Boston. With a roster led by Tatum and Jaylen Brown, the Celtics are not only looking to defend their crown but also tie the Lakers for the most championships in NBA history.

As anticipation builds for the series, Tatum addressed Banchero’s comments about bringing intensity to face his former Duke teammate.

“That’s how it should be,” Tatum said. “He’s trying to lead his team in a playoff series and figure out ways to win—and I’m trying to do the same.”

Tatum also made it clear that personal relationships won’t matter once the ball tips off. “No friends out there. Nothing else matters besides doing everything I can to help my team win,” he told reporters.

Paolo Banchero

Paolo Banchero #5 of the Orlando Magic celebrates against the Washington Wizards during the second half at Capital One Arena on March 21, 2025 in Washington.

Banchero reflects on facing longtime friend Jayson Tatum in the playoffs

The strong bond forged between Paolo Banchero and Jayson Tatum during their college years will take a backseat once the playoffs begin.

According to both players, friendship won’t get in the way of competition, and that could make their potential matchup one of the most exciting storylines of the postseason.

“I’ve known Jayson since I was going into college. But obviously, now we’re competing,” Banchero said when asked about facing Tatum and the Celtics. “The best way for me to show my respect is to give him my best effort and go at him as much as I can.”

The possibility of a playoff showdown between the Celtics and Magic has both players, and fans, looking ahead. Expect an intense battle where every possession matters and every shot could shift momentum.

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Celtics vs. Magic: A Chance at Redemption for Boston

During the regular season, the Magic held a 2-1 edge over the Celtics, with both of their wins coming at home. Home-court advantage has proven to be a key factor in this matchup, and it could once again be the difference in the playoffs.

Focus will be crucial for both teams as they navigate a stacked Eastern Conference. With the series set to tip off Saturday, fans are eager to see how these two franchises will respond under playoff pressure.