The Boston Celtics received a boost ahead of Monday night’s matchup against the Orlando Magic as sharpshooter Sam Hauser has been cleared to play. Hauser had been listed as questionable due to low back spasms, but the team updated his status, confirming his availability.
Hauser’s Impact on the Season So Far
Hauser has been a reliable contributor off the bench for the Celtics this season, appearing in 21 games. He’s averaging 8.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game while shooting an efficient 43.7% from the field and 37.3% from beyond the arc. His ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting has made him a valuable asset for Boston’s deep roster.
Celtics Riding High into Orlando
The Celtics enter the game with a stellar 22-6 record, good for the second seed in the Eastern Conference. They’ve won seven of their last ten games, including a dominant 123-98 victory over the Chicago Bulls in their most recent outing. Jayson Tatum and Kristaps Porziņģis were the stars of that contest, combining for an impressive 65 points and 22 rebounds.
Boston has been formidable on the road this season, boasting an 11-2 record away from TD Garden. After facing the Magic, they’ll head back home to prepare for a Christmas Day showdown against Joel Embiid and the Philadelphia 76ers, a game with potential playoff implications.
Magic Present a Tough Test at Home
The Orlando Magic have been one of the pleasant surprises of the season, currently sitting at 18-12 and holding the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference. While they’ve been inconsistent over their last ten games (5-5), their 11-2 home record at the Kia Center makes them a formidable opponent.
Orlando is coming off a 121-114 victory over the Miami Heat, with Tyler Herro and the Heat unable to keep pace with their young, energetic roster. Following their clash with the Celtics, the Magic will face the Heat again in Orlando on Thursday.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Jayson Tatum vs. Franz Wagner: Tatum continues to shine as one of the league’s elite players, but Wagner has emerged as a key contributor for the Magic. Their matchup will be pivotal.
- Kristaps Porziņģis vs. Paolo Banchero: Porziņģis is coming off a dominant performance against the Bulls, and the reigning Rookie of the Year, Banchero, will need to step up to counter his impact in the paint.
Outlook
With Sam Hauser back in the lineup, the Celtics have another weapon to stretch the floor against the Magic’s stout defense. Both teams are exceptional at home and on the road, respectively, making this a must-watch game between two of the Eastern Conference’s top teams.
Will the Celtics’ road dominance continue, or will the Magic protect their home court? Tip-off in Orlando is set for 7:00 PM EST.
