LA Lakers (40-21) at Boston (45-18)
- When: Mar 8 2025, 8:30 PM
- Where: STADIUM_HERE, Boston, MA, USA
- TV: ABC
Game Preview
Spread: Boston -7.0 | Total: 227
Los Angeles Lakers
The red-hot Lakers come into this matchup riding an eight-game winning streak, showing resilience in their most recent victory—a 113-109 overtime thriller against the New York Knicks. Despite trailing by 10 points midway through the fourth quarter, Los Angeles managed to grind out another win, showcasing their ability to close games even when not at their best.
“We haven’t had many of those games because frankly, we’ve had the lead a lot lately,” head coach JJ Redick said. “I think it’s a good reminder for our group going forward that we can win games like this where we’re not at our best offensively, where we get off to a slow start defensively, but we have enough toughness and grit to get these games.”
Los Angeles has been on a dominant 18-3 run over its last 21 games, surging into second place in the Western Conference. A major factor in their success has been Luka Doncic, who has seamlessly fit into the Lakers’ system since arriving from Dallas. In 10 games with L.A., Doncic is averaging 23.8 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 8.1 assists, proving to be the perfect complement to LeBron James.
“I think we have a great team, we have great players,” Doncic said. “Chemistry is building. They’re all great guys. I am just happy to be part of this.”
Los Angeles will begin a tough four-game road trip, making stops in Brooklyn, Milwaukee, and Denver after this showdown in Boston.
Boston Celtics
The Celtics have also been rolling, winning three straight games, but they’ve been dealing with injuries to key players. Kristaps Porzingis (illness) and Jrue Holiday (finger) have each missed the last four games, while Jaylen Brown (knee), Al Horford (toe), and Sam Hauser (ankle) all sat out Thursday’s win over Philadelphia. Boston’s depth has allowed them to maintain dominance, but their injury report will be something to monitor heading into Saturday’s high-profile showdown.
This is more than just a regular-season game—it’s a matchup between two of the most storied franchises in NBA history. Boston leads the all-time championship race with 18 titles, while the Lakers are right behind with 17.
“You respect and understand the history and all the guys that wore the Lakers and Celtics uniform and what it means for the game of basketball and the NBA,” Jayson Tatum said. “It’s an honor to be a part of that, for sure, so I’m certain everybody’s looking forward to that matchup, as they do every single year.”
The game will feature four of the NBA’s elite scorers:
- Jayson Tatum (26.9 PPG)
- Luka Doncic (26.8 PPG)
- LeBron James (25.1 PPG)
- Jaylen Brown (23.1 PPG, if available)
Tatum also had high praise for LeBron, acknowledging the longevity and consistency that have defined his two-decade career.
“As much as we probably talk about LeBron, we probably don’t talk about him enough,” Tatum said. “Being 40 years old, in his 22nd season, playing at an All-NBA level, is incredible. It’s a testament to the work that he puts into this game, to his body, to stay in the best shape to be able to compete and perform at the highest level for over two decades now.”
Betting Predictions & Picks
Spread Pick: Lakers (+7.0) – Los Angeles is playing their best basketball of the season, while Boston is dealing with injury concerns. The Lakers’ defensive intensity has ramped up, and their ability to close games late makes them a strong underdog play.
Over/Under Pick: Under 227.0 – While both teams have elite offensive weapons, the Celtics have been slower-paced and have played more defensively sound basketball when shorthanded. This could lead to a lower-scoring affair than expected.
Player Prop to Watch: Luka Doncic Points + Assists – With LeBron facilitating more, Doncic has become the Lakers’ go-to scorer and playmaker. Expect him to fill up the stat sheet in a game where he will need to match Tatum’s production.
Expect a highly competitive battle between these two historic rivals, with playoff intensity in the air. While Boston remains the rightful favorite, the Lakers’ momentum and improved chemistry could make them a tough out on the road.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
