Maine returns home for key game against Magic

PORTLAND, Maine. - After playing nine consecutive games on the road, the Maine Celtics return home on Thursday night for a key matchup with the Osceola Magic.

Entering Thursday night's showdown, Maine (20-11) is currently a half game ahead of Osceola (18-10) for first place in the Eastern Conference standings. Just two games separates first place and sixth place in the current conference standings. For nearly two months, Maine has been the hottest team in the NBA G League, having won 14 of its last 16 contests dating back to January 29th. Osceola is right there with them, winning eight out of their last 10 times on the court.

Including tonight's game, the Celtics have just three games remaining on their Regular Season schedule. The Celtics have not played in the friendly confines of the Portland Expo since February 13th against Long Island. The last time Maine faced the Magic, Osceola handed the Celtics a a 108-105 heartbreaking overtime loss in January.

During their long road trip, the Maine Celtics went 7-2 and earned multiple honors from the NBA G League. Head Coach Tyler Lashbrook was named the G League Coach of the Month for February and JD Davison was named Kia NBA G League Player of the Month for February and earned Player of the Week honors in the first week of March. Maine has won three consecutive after recently completing a sweep of the Greensboro Swarm.

Maine is expected to have all Two-Way Players available and no other players on the injury report for the big game against the Magic. Thursday will mark the home debut for recently signed Two-Way player Miles Norris, who was signed by the Celtics on March 4th.

On Thursday, the Celtics will be hosting “EmpowHER Night,” a celebration of Women in Sports, featuring special themed Maine Celtics uniforms, EmpowHER Night is presented by TD Bank.

"It's incredible," said Coach Lashbrook. "I've worked with a lot of women in my career that have had a big influence on me and a big impact in terms of winning. It's a no brainer to have these moments."

“From the front office to the athletic training staff, women play a vital role in the success of the team.” said Dajuan Eubanks, Maine Celtics Team President. “The Maine Celtics pride themselves on having a diverse workforce, and we are proud to recognize women in sports on this special night.”

WHERE TO WATCH: Thursday's game between the Maine Celtics and Osceola Magic will tip-off at 7 p.m. at the Portland Expo. The game will broadcast live on NBC Sports Boston and ESPN+.