Goga Bitadze was the last Magic player on the court inside TD Garden after practice in Boston, working individually with assistant coaches on his shooting, paint work, and free throws. According to Bitadze, it's nothing new, as he always stays after practice to be ready in case his time comes. His time came later that night when he played 8 minutes during the third and fourth quarters at Boston, scoring once, grabbing 3 rebounds with a block, and adding an assist in limited action.
Bitadze fell out of coach Jamahl Mosley's starting lineup after the All-Star break and saw his minutes significantly decrease down the stretch of the regular season. Starting 41 times in 42 appearances from Nov. 4-Feb. 12, he averaged 9.1 points, 8.4 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1.8 blocks, and nearly a full steal during 25 minutes. But in 22 games post-break, he averaged just 4 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.4 assists plus less than a full block and just half-a-steal during 13.6 minutes.
Despite the reduced playing time, Bitadze remains positive, stating that he's got to be proud of himself and not get down on himself. He's been through a lot worse than this and has learned how to stay ready and handle this kind of situation. Bitadze was cut by the Pacers in February 2023 before landing in Orlando and earning a 3-year contract extension with the Magic this past summer.
Turning to Bitadze late in Game 2 was a sign of what could come from Mosley during the rest of Orlando's best-of-seven series against the Celtics. The Magic coach will consider changing his rotations based on how a game, and the series itself, progresses. At the time, Jonathan Isaac started Games 1 and 2 against the Cavaliers before Mosley switched back to Wendell Carter Jr. in the opening lineup.
Bitadze's energy off the bench could be a crucial factor in the series, as the Magic look to bounce back from their Game 2 loss. With Jayson Tatum's status uncertain due to a right wrist bone bruise, the Celtics' lineup may be affected, and Mosley may need to adjust his rotations accordingly. As the series shifts back to the Kia Center, Bitadze's readiness and energy could be a key factor in the Magic's chances of turning the series around.
The Magic's chances of coming back from a 2-0 deficit are slim, but Bitadze's determination and work ethic could inspire his teammates to step up their game. As the series progresses, it will be interesting to see how Mosley utilizes Bitadze and whether the young center can make a significant impact on the court. With his contract extension and commitment to the Magic, Bitadze is ready to prove himself as a valuable asset to the team.
