Boston (39-16) at Philadelphia (20-34)
- When: Feb 20 2025, 6:00 PM
- Where: Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- TV: TNT
Game Preview
Boston Favored by 7.0 | Total Set at 223.5
The NBA returns from the All-Star break with an Atlantic Division showdown between the Boston Celtics and the Philadelphia 76ers. While Boston enters on a strong run, Philadelphia is desperate to regain momentum after struggling in the weeks leading up to the break.
Boston Celtics Outlook
The Celtics (43-12) finished the first half of the season in dominant fashion, winning seven of their last eight games. Their momentum was highlighted by a thrilling 118-110 comeback victory over the 76ers on Feb. 2, erasing a 26-point deficit. Boston continues to showcase why they are one of the league’s premier teams, sitting atop the Eastern Conference standings with a balanced mix of offense and defense.
Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Kristaps Porzingis have formed an elite trio, with Tatum leading the way at 27.0 points per game. The Celtics have also been stellar defensively, ranking among the top five in the NBA in opponent scoring.
Boston’s deep roster and defensive discipline make them a difficult matchup for any team, but especially for a struggling Philadelphia squad that has lacked consistency in recent weeks.
Philadelphia 76ers Outlook
The 76ers (32-22) stumbled into the All-Star break, dropping seven of their last eight games, including five straight losses. The absence of Joel Embiid has been a major factor in their struggles, with Philadelphia failing to find a rhythm without their superstar big man.
In their last outing, a 100-96 loss to Brooklyn, Kelly Oubre Jr. and Quentin Grimes combined for 60 points, but the rest of the team struggled. Paul George was held to just two points as the Nets blitzed him all night.
The good news for Philadelphia is that both Embiid and Tyrese Maxey practiced this week, meaning they could return to action. If they do suit up, the 76ers will be a much tougher challenge for Boston. However, the team will need to find a way to slow down the Celtics’ high-powered offense and avoid another second-half collapse.
Betting Prediction
Spread Pick: Boston -7.0
The Celtics have been dominant in recent weeks, while the 76ers have struggled to keep up without Embiid. Even if he returns, Boston’s depth and defensive pressure should be too much for Philadelphia to handle.
Total Pick: Under 223.5
While both teams are capable of scoring, the Celtics’ defense will likely slow down Philadelphia’s offense, especially if Embiid is limited. Boston has been efficient on both ends, and their ability to control the pace should keep the total under the projected line.
Boston enters this matchup with all the momentum, while Philadelphia is still trying to find its footing. Expect the Celtics to control the game and cover the spread in what could be another frustrating night for the 76ers.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
