Boston (26-9) at Oklahoma City (29-5)
- When: Jan 5 2025, 3:30 PM
- Where: Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- TV: NBCS-BOS
Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total
Boston Celtics @ Oklahoma City Thunder
Moneyline
Boston Celtics +105
Oklahoma City Thunder -125
Boston Celtics @ Oklahoma City Thunder
Point Spread
Boston Celtics 2.0 (-115)
Oklahoma City Thunder -2.0 (-105)
Boston Celtics @ Oklahoma City Thunder
Total
Over 223.0 (-110)
Under 223.0 (-110)
- Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
Key Players:
Boston: Jayson Tatum
Oklahoma City: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Team Stats
| Celtics | Thunder | |
| 26-9 | Record | 29-5 |
| 13-3 | Away & Home | 15-2 |
| 6-4 | Last 10 | 10-0 |
| W3 | Streak | W14 |
Last Matchup:
BOS 135-100, April 3rd, 2024
Game Preview
Sunday’s matchup between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Boston Celtics brings an intense storyline and plenty of betting intrigue. The Thunder are riding high with a franchise-best 14-game winning streak, while the Celtics—defending NBA champions—are seeking to make a statement as they continue their road trip.
Oklahoma City’s Momentum
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander made it clear there’s extra motivation for this one. The Thunder have shown resilience, overcoming double-digit deficits in their last three wins, including a 14-point comeback victory over the New York Knicks on Friday. Oklahoma City is also 10-0 against Eastern Conference teams this season, although they recently fell short against Milwaukee in the NBA Cup final, which doesn’t impact regular-season standings.
Defensively, OKC leads the NBA with a 102.9 defensive rating, and Gilgeous-Alexander has been dominant, averaging 32.7 points, 5.2 assists, and 2.3 steals per game during the win streak. His ability to set the tone offensively and defensively has made the Thunder a tough out at home.
Boston’s Revival
After a rocky December, the Celtics seem to have found their groove. They’ve won three straight games to start January and are 2-0 on their current road trip. In those wins, Boston has shot 51.6% from the field and posted an elite 133.6 offensive rating while holding opponents to a 103.3 defensive rating—both tops in the NBA over this span.
Kristaps Porzingis returned to action on Friday after missing four games with an ankle sprain and will play a pivotal role against Oklahoma City’s formidable defense. Jaylen Brown’s status remains in question due to a shoulder injury, while Al Horford is expected to rejoin the rotation after resting during the second game of Boston’s back-to-back.
Key Factors and Betting Prediction
Depth Advantage: OKC’s depth has been a game-changer, with players like Aaron Wiggins and Isaiah Hartenstein stepping up during crucial moments. This versatility could give them an edge against a Boston squad potentially missing a key star.
Celtics’ Defense: Boston is holding its opponents to under 37% from beyond the arc during their win streak, but they’ll need to contain Gilgeous-Alexander, who has been exceptional at finding ways to score and involve his teammates.
Pace and Scoring: With both teams capable of putting up points in bunches, the total of 223 points feels reachable. However, OKC’s top-rated defense may slow the pace down.
Prediction:
This matchup will be close, but the Thunder’s home-court advantage, depth, and defensive prowess should carry them to another win. Take Oklahoma City to cover the -2 spread and lean toward the over 223, as both teams have been in high-scoring battles recently. Expect a competitive game, but the Thunder’s winning formula remains tough to crack.
NBA Parlay Picks & Predictions
Final Score: Oklahoma City 115-111
The Pick: Oklahoma City -2 (-105) & Over 223
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $373
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
