Boston Celtics Vs Toronto Raptors Prediction, Preview, And Betting Odds
The Toronto Raptors and Boston Celtics are set to clash in an exciting matchup on Friday, December 29, 2023, at 07:30 PM ET at the TD Garden (Boston). Here’s a comprehensive preview of the game, including betting odds, and a game prediction.
Match Prediction Toronto Raptors vs Boston Celtics
This is a tough game to call, but I give the Celtics the slight edge at home. They have the better overall talent and have been playing better basketball lately. I expect a close game, but I think the Celtics will pull away in the fourth quarter to win by 7 points.
Head to Head
The Boston Celtics hold a significant advantage in the head-to-head matchup against the Toronto Raptors, both historically and this season.
- All-time: The Celtics lead the series 72-45, with a winning percentage of 61.5%.
- 2023-24 season: The Celtics have swept the Raptors in their two meetings so far,
Toronto Raptors vs Boston Celtics Preview
The Boston Celtics (28-13) will host the Toronto Raptors (20-21) in a battle for Eastern Conference supremacy. The Celtics currently sit in first place, while the Raptors are clinging to the eighth and final playoff spot. This will be the third meeting between these two teams this season, with the Celtics winning the first two by an average margin of 14 points.
The Celtics are coming off a tough loss to the Golden State Warriors, but they are still one of the hottest teams in the NBA, having won 8 of their last 10 games. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown are the best one-two punch in the league, and they are averaging a combined 52.8 points per game. The Celtics also boast a deep and talented supporting cast, including Marcus Smart, Robert Williams III,
The Raptors are a young and exciting team that is starting to find its rhythm. Pascal Siakam is having an All-Star caliber season, averaging 26.0 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game. Scottie Barnes is also emerging as a star, averaging 15.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game. The Raptors have won 7 of their last 10 games, including wins over the Brooklyn Nets and Milwaukee Bucks.
Boston Celtics vs Toronto Raptors Betting Odds
- Spread: Celtics -5.5
- Over/Under: 226.5
- Moneyline: Celtics -210, Raptors +170
Key Players:
- Boston Celtics: Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Marcus Smart, Robert Williams III, Al Horford
- Toronto Raptors: Pascal Siakam, Scottie Barnes, Fred VanVleet, OG Anunoby, Gary Trent Jr.
Injuries:
- Boston Celtics: Danilo Gallinari (OUT)
- Toronto Raptors: Otto Porter Jr. (OUT), Gary Trent Jr. (GTD)
FAQs for Toronto Raptors vs Boston Celtics
Why is Toronto called the Raptors?
On 15 May, the team’s moniker, the Toronto Raptors, was unveiled on Canadian national television. The associated logo was revealed a few days later. The moniker was likely influenced by the popularity of the Steven Spielberg blockbuster Jurassic Park (1993).
How early can you go to the Raptors game?
Gates open 1 hour before puck drop or tip-off for all games. Premium Entrance opens 2 hours before puck drop or tip off for Suites & Restaurant access. Concert gate times can vary, but generally, gates will open 60 minutes before the start time listed on the ticket.
How are the Raptors in the NBA?
The team was founded in 1995 as part of the NBA’s expansion into Canada, along with the Vancouver Grizzlies. Since the 2001–02 season, the Raptors have been the only Canadian-based team in the league, as the Grizzlies relocated from Vancouver to Memphis, Tennessee.
Who owns the Toronto Raptors?
Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), one of the world’s premier sports and entertainment companies, owns the Toronto Maple Leafs (NHL), Toronto Raptors (NBA), Toronto FC (MLS), Toronto Argonauts (CFL), Toronto Marlies (AHL), Raptors 905 (NBA G League), TFC II (MLS Next Pro) and Raptors Uprising Gaming Club
Read More: Washington Wizards Vs Brooklyn Nets Prediction, Preview, And Betting Odds
Conclusion
While the Raptors are a young and talented team on the rise, the Celtics’ overall talent, experience, and home-court advantage give them the edge in this matchup. Here’s why I predict a Celtics victory:
- Offensive firepower: The Celtics boast the league’s best one-two punch in Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, who average a combined 52.8 points per game.
- Balanced attack: The Celtics have a deep and experienced supporting cast, including Marcus Smart, Robert Williams III, and Al Horford, who can provide scoring and defense from multiple positions.
- Home-court advantage: The TD Garden is always a tough place to play, and the Celtics thrive on their passionate home crowd.
