Boston (26-10) at Denver (20-14)
- When: Jan 7 2025, 10:00 PM
- Where: Ball Arena, Denver, CO, USA
- TV: TNT
Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total
Boston Celtics @ Denver Nuggets
Moneyline
Boston Celtics -230
Denver Nuggets +190
Boston Celtics @ Denver Nuggets
Point Spread
Boston Celtics -6.0 (-110)
Denver Nuggets 6.0 (-110)
Boston Celtics @ Denver Nuggets
Total
Over 237.0 (-105)
Under 237.0 (-115)
- Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
Key Players:
Boston: Jayson Tatum
Denver: Nikola Jokić
Team Stats
| Celtics | Nuggets | |
| 26-10 | Record | 20-14 |
| 13-4 | Away & Home | 10-6 |
| 5-5 | Last 10 | 6-4 |
| L1 | Streak | W1 |
Last Matchup:
DEN 115-109, March 7th, 2024
Game Preview
The Boston Celtics aim to close out their four-game road trip with a statement win after a disappointing loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Sunday. They previously secured back-to-back wins over the Minnesota Timberwolves and Houston Rockets before the Thunder snapped their streak. Now, Boston faces a tough challenge on the road against the Denver Nuggets.
The Celtics have taken four of their last six games but hit a rough patch earlier, losing three of four. Jaylen Brown’s return from a two-game absence due to a shoulder strain gave them a lift against OKC, though Jayson Tatum gave fans a scare after a hard fall in the third quarter. Fortunately, Tatum confirmed he’s fine and ready to play.
Tatum remains Boston’s leader across the board, averaging 28.1 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game. Brown follows with 24.3 points per contest, while Kristaps Porzingis, still regaining full strength after an ankle injury, is averaging 6.5 rebounds in his 13 starts this season. Porzingis looked solid in his return against Houston, stating he’s improving with every game.
The Celtics’ defense will be put to the test against Denver’s explosive offense, which is averaging 124.5 points over its last 10 games. At the heart of it all is Nikola Jokic, who is in MVP form once again, ranking second in the NBA in scoring (31.5 ppg) and assists (9.7 apg), while pulling down 13 rebounds per game. The Nuggets also rely heavily on Jamal Murray (19.4 ppg) and Michael Porter Jr. (19.1 ppg).
Denver remains competitive despite missing Aaron Gordon for six straight games due to a calf strain. Although Gordon practiced Monday, head coach Michael Malone confirmed he’s ruled out against Boston. Russell Westbrook has stepped up in Gordon’s absence, delivering a triple-double—the 201st of his career—and a double-double over the past six games. Westbrook’s role may shift once Gordon returns, but for now, he’s been pivotal in keeping Denver afloat.
Betting Analysis and Prediction:
Boston is favored by 6 points, but this game has the makings of a shootout given Denver’s scoring prowess. With the Nuggets averaging well over 120 points lately and Boston’s top-ranked offense, the over 237 points seems enticing. However, the Celtics’ strong defense and Tatum’s leadership give them a solid chance to cover the spread, especially with Gordon still out.
Prediction: Celtics win and cover the spread, with the total edging past 237 in a high-scoring battle.
NBA Parlay Picks & Predictions
Final Score: Boston 126-119
Expert Pick: Boston -6 & Over 237 (-105)
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $373
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
