The Boston Celtics have once again proven their dominance in the Eastern Conference, finishing the 2024–25 regular season with a 61-21 record, just behind the Cleveland Cavaliers. With their eyes on the NBA championship, the Celtics are entering the most important stretch of the season — the NBA playoffs.
As they prepare to face the Orlando Magic in Game 1, fans have been holding their breath for updates on one key player: Jaylen Brown. The good news is finally here.
Jaylen Brown’s Status Before Orlando Magic Matchup
According to the latest injury report released by ESPN, the Celtics head into the playoffs with a fully healthy roster. That means Brown, who had been nursing a sore knee and missed three of the final regular-season games, is officially cleared to play Game 1 without any minute restrictions.
This is a big relief for Celtics fans, considering how important Brown’s two-way play is to Boston’s postseason hopes. While Brown’s knee had been a concern at the end of the regular season, all signs now point to a full recovery. He’s been participating in full-contact practices throughout the week, gradually ramping up his workload after getting a pain management injection during the final week of the season.
“I appreciate Joe and the training staff. We had a good game plan that we were kind of like filling it out. I know my body pretty well. But the decisions that were made, I felt what was best. I think I’m going to use some of that stuff in my back pocket as we go forward. That was a good test for me,” said Brown.
That statement makes sense. A photo that surfaced on social media this week shows head coach Joe Mazzulla kneeling beside Brown, checking on his knee during practice.
Joe Mazzulla is testing out Jaylen Brown’s knee for himself during practice ahead of the playoffs. #Celtics
(📸 Celtics) pic.twitter.com/IM43v20gwi— The Celtics Files (@CelticsFiles) April 20, 2025
Looking at his stats, Brown has been strong this season. He averaged 22.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game. His ability to get to the rim, create his own shot, and guard multiple positions makes him a key piece in Boston’s playoff run.
As Game 1 tips off, Celtics fans can relax knowing their star is ready. Brown is not only available, he’s locked in, healthy, and ready to lead Boston’s push for another championship.
Important Players To Look for in Tonight’s Magic vs. Celtics Matchup
Heading into tonight’s matchup between the Magic and the Celtics, Orlando’s injury report brings some good news. Only Jalen Suggs and Moritz Wagner have been listed as out, meaning the Magic will have most of their core available.
With a mostly healthy roster, Orlando will look to Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner to lead the way. Banchero is averaging 25.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game this season, continuing to grow as the center of the Magic’s rebuild.
Meanwhile, Wagner has been quietly steady, putting up 24.2 points per game with solid defense and flexibility on the wing.
On the Celtics’ side, as mentioned before, Brown will be the main scorer tonight.
“He looks good. He was able to do everything, no limitations. He’s been great, physically, mentally, really preparing himself, ready to go. So, love the week that he had,” said Mazzulla about Brown.
They’ll also need strong support from Jayson Tatum, who is averaging 26.8 points per game and will be key in matching Orlando’s energy. This is shaping up to be a fast-paced and exciting game.