Boston (30-13) at LA Clippers (24-18)
- When: Jan 22 2025, 10:30 PM
- Where: Intuit Dome, Inglewood, CA, USA
- TV: NBCS-BOS
Game Preview
The Boston Celtics, coming off a commanding victory, are set to take on the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday night in Inglewood, Calif. With Boston favored by 11.0 points and the game total set at 218.5, this matchup presents intriguing betting opportunities.
Celtics Riding High
Boston enters this game on a high note after obliterating the Golden State Warriors 125-85 on Monday. The Celtics dominated from start to finish, led by Jayson Tatum’s 22 points and nine rebounds. Jaylen Brown added 17 points, while Kristaps Porzingis contributed 18 in a balanced team effort.
The Celtics shot an impressive 53.3% from the field, while holding the Warriors to just 34.8%. Boston’s defense, which set the tone early, will be key against a Clippers squad dealing with injuries.
Coach Joe Mazzulla praised the team’s focus: “Our attention to detail on defense and physicality dominated the game.”
Porzingis, who has been finding his rhythm after missing significant time earlier in the season, has averaged 20.6 points and 8.6 rebounds over his last seven games. Look for Boston to continue leveraging his inside-out scoring ability.
Clippers Battling Injuries
The Clippers, meanwhile, are coming off a disappointing 112-99 loss to the Chicago Bulls on Monday, which snapped their four-game winning streak. Los Angeles played without Kawhi Leonard, who was resting his knee, and Ivica Zubac, sidelined due to an eye injury. Both have already been ruled out for Wednesday’s matchup.
Additionally, Norman Powell (back) and James Harden (groin) are questionable, further complicating the Clippers’ lineup. Without Zubac, who averages 15.0 points and 12.7 rebounds per game, the Clippers struggled on the boards, getting outrebounded 54-40 against Chicago. Mo Bamba started in Zubac’s place, contributing 10 points and seven rebounds, but the team lacked its usual interior presence.
Coach Tyronn Lue expressed frustration with the team’s lack of pace on offense, particularly in the third quarter, when they were outscored by 20 points: “We played way too slow. When we’re playing small, you have to play fast.”
Betting Analysis and Predictions
Spread: Boston’s dominant win over Golden State and the Clippers’ depleted roster make the Celtics a strong play to cover the 11.0-point spread. With Leonard and Zubac out, Los Angeles will struggle to keep up with Boston’s firepower.
Total Under (218.5): The Clippers’ offensive limitations without their key players lean toward a lower-scoring affair. The under is worth considering if the Celtics continue their defensive intensity.
Prediction
The Celtics are poised to capitalize on the Clippers’ injury woes and extend their road success. Boston’s defensive prowess and balanced scoring will be too much for Los Angeles to handle. Final Score Prediction: Boston 116, Los Angeles 100.
Take the Celtics to cover the spread, and lean toward the under if the Clippers’ offense struggles to find its rhythm.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
