Boston Celtics (23-9) vs Toronto Raptors (7-25)
Game Info: Tuesday, December 31, 2024 at 3:00 pm (TD Garden)
Betting Odds: Boston Celtics -17.5 --- Over/Under: 230.5
The Toronto Raptors and the Boston Celtics
Game Preview!
The Toronto Raptors and Boston Celtics are all set for an exciting showdown at TD Garden, and basketball fans are buzzing. Both teams have shown great skill and determination this season, making this game a must-watch in the NBA lineup. As we get ready for the game, everyone's eyes are on how they'll play, their strategies, and what it means for the Eastern Conference standings. This article will dive into a detailed prediction, looking at each team's strengths, weaknesses, key players, and recent games. Plus, we'll make a pick on which team might come out on top based on their current form, head-to-head stats, and other important factors.
The Toronto Raptors Team Preview!
The Toronto Raptors are really struggling right now, having lost 13 of their last 16 games. They're hoping to break a 10-game losing streak after getting crushed by the Hawks in a 136-107 defeat on Sunday. Scottie Barnes was the top scorer with 19 points, eight rebounds, and five assists. RJ Barrett added 17 points, six rebounds, and four assists, while Jakob Poeltl contributed 13 points, six rebounds, and three blocks. The team shot 44% overall and hit just seven of 24 from the 3-point line. They made a push in the second quarter to keep it close with the Hawks but got outscored 72-49 in the second half, dropping to a 7-25 record for the season and 6-11 at home. Up next, the Raptors will face the Nets, Magic, Bucks, Knicks, and Cavs.
The Boston Celtics Team Preview!
The Boston Celtics have hit a rough patch, losing four out of their last six games. They're looking to bounce back after a 123-114 defeat against the Pacers on Sunday. Jaylen Brown was the top scorer with 31 points and six assists, Jayson Tatum added 22 points, nine rebounds, and six assists, and Payton Pritchard contributed 21 points off the bench. The team shot 46% from the field and made 16 of 54 from beyond the arc, but their defense wasn't up to par. They struggled after giving up 38 points in the second quarter, which put them 16 points behind. Al Horford had a tough night, scoring only five points on two of 12 shooting while dealing with foul trouble throughout the game.
The Toronto Raptors vs Boston Celtics
Game Prediction!
The Pick: Raptors +18.5 -112
The Raptors are still keeping an eye on Bruno Fernando, Davion Mitchell, and Gradey Dick, who are all questionable, while the Celtics have Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis listed as questionable too. The Raptors are heading into this game as one of the coldest teams in the league, likely feeling pretty low on confidence after getting crushed by the Hawks last time. On the other hand, the Celtics have been a bit off their game lately since they've been missing some starters, but this matchup shouldn't be too tough for them. The point spread was always going to be big for this one, but nearly 20 points is a lot for any NBA game. That said, I'm confident the Celtics will win this one easily, though I think the Raptors might stick around long enough to cover the spread on the road.
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