Boston (34-15) at Philadelphia (19-28)
- When: Feb 2 2025, 6:00 PM
- Where: Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- TV: ESPN
Game Preview
Spread: Boston -11 | Total: 223.5
Boston Celtics Outlook
The Celtics are looking to maintain their momentum as they hit the road to face the Philadelphia 76ers, following a thrilling 118-116 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday. Jayson Tatum, who has taken on a leadership role this season, delivered the game-winning fadeaway shot in the final second, finishing with 27 points and 10 assists. His clutch performance was complemented by Jaylen Brown’s 28 points and Kristaps Porzingis’ 16.
Despite the victory, Boston showed some vulnerabilities, getting outworked on the glass (48-35) and struggling defensively against Trey Murphy III, who went off for 40 points. Head coach Joe Mazzulla acknowledged the team’s inconsistencies but remains focused on the bigger picture.
“We didn’t play perfect, but it’s one of those games where if you win, you’re happy, and if you lose, you’re not,” Mazzulla said.
Boston has been dominant for most of the season, but they have shown a tendency to let opponents hang around in games. They are 19-29-1 against the spread (ATS) on the season and have struggled to cover double-digit lines. However, with Tatum and Brown leading the charge, the Celtics are capable of breaking games open at any moment.
Philadelphia 76ers Outlook
The Sixers enter this matchup coming off a high-scoring 137-134 loss to the Denver Nuggets, snapping their four-game winning streak. Tyrese Maxey once again put the team on his back, exploding for 42 points and nine assists in the absence of Joel Embiid and Paul George. Despite his standout performances this season (27.5 points, 6.1 assists, 1.9 steals per game), Maxey was not selected as an All-Star.
Philadelphia continues to deal with injuries, with Embiid (knee) and George (finger) sidelined. However, they have managed to stay competitive thanks to contributions from unexpected sources, including Guerschon Yabusele. The former Celtics first-round pick had a career-high 28 points against Denver and has been a key role player for the Sixers, averaging 10.8 points and 5.5 rebounds in 45 games.
Although the Sixers are undermanned, they have covered the spread in five of their last nine matchups against Boston. Given their ability to push the pace and score in bunches, Philadelphia could keep this game close, especially if Maxey continues his offensive tear.
Betting Prediction
The Celtics enter as 11-point favorites, but recent trends suggest they struggle to cover inflated spreads. The Sixers, despite their injuries, have been a resilient group, particularly with Maxey leading the offense. With the total set at 223.5, expect a high-scoring affair, as both teams have been efficient offensively but vulnerable on the defensive end.
Prediction: Boston wins outright, but Philadelphia covers the spread in a competitive game. Expect the total to go over as the Sixers push the pace and force the Celtics into a back-and-forth battle.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
