Celtics vs. Magic Preview – Down to the Wire

It will be hard to top the epic Celtics-Bulls series that just unfolded, but of all the 2nd round series in the NBA playoffs, the Celtics-Magic matchup has the most potential to duplicate it.

With Kevin Garnett’s knee still acting up on him and Garnett unlikely to play, Dwight Howard has the potential to put up Shaquille O’Neal-in-his-prime numbers on the Celtics’ interior defense, which is now lacking in the depth department.

The Celtics’ monumental task in shutting down the young superstar will be great theater, and the abundance of clutch shooters on both sides could propel this series to must-watch heights.

Boston will take its chances late in games with the sharp-shooting of Ray Allen, who went off against the Bulls, and Paul Pierce, who has made big shots late in games his whole career. Rajon Rondo can also get in the lane and cause havoc late in games.

Orlando counters with Hedo Turkoglu, who had a game-winner in game four of the Philadelphia series, as well as Rashard Lewis, whose size and high release allows him to get his shot off against just about anyone late in games.

The two teams split the season series, but the Celtics are the favorites. The BetOnline NBAodds have the Celtics as -140 to +110 for the Magic.

The key to this series might be whether or not Boston can contain Howard and whether Orlando can get him the ball down low.

Rafer “Skip to My Lou” Alston has filled in nicely for injured Jameer Nelson since coming over in a mid-season trade, but he will be tested against the underrated defense of Rajon Rondo, who is transforming into a true star in these playoffs. Rondo can force turnovers with the best of them and Alston will have to play a little smarter than usual and take care of the ball.

If he can get the ball to Howard, it could be lights out for Boston. Kendrick Perkins is a good position defender but he doesn’t have the quickness to stay out of foul trouble for very long against Howard if Howard demands the ball and stays active.

Glen “Big Baby” Davis is big and quick but lacks height, and Mikki Moore will likely get tossed around like a rag doll in the post.

In the end, however, Boston’s new “Big Three” with Rondo stepping up his game and teaming with Allen and Pierce will be the difference, controlling the tempo and hitting more of the big shots.

This should be an exciting series but the pick here is that Boston will win in seven games.