Phoenix (35-41) at Boston (56-20)
- When: Apr 4 2025, 7:30 PM
- Where: TD Garden, Boston, MA, USA
- TV: NBA TV
Suns vs Celtics – NBA Prediction, Odds & Betting Analysis
Spread: Boston -14.5 | Total: 228.0
The Boston Celtics look to bounce back from a rare home loss as they welcome the struggling Phoenix Suns to TD Garden on Friday night. Boston enters as a hefty 14.5-point favorite, with the total set at 228.0.
Boston Celtics Outlook
Boston (56-20) had their momentum stalled in a 124-103 home defeat to Miami on Wednesday, snapping a six-game winning streak. It marked just their 13th loss at home this season and raises the stakes as they aim to avoid dropping back-to-back home games for the first time all year.
While fatigue from a long road trip may have contributed, the Celtics are not making excuses. Jaylen Brown led the team with 24 points in the loss, despite continuing to deal with a lingering bone bruise in his knee. He’s listed as questionable for Friday, but Boston expects to get a boost with the likely returns of Jrue Holiday, Al Horford, and Kristaps Porzingis—all of whom sat out the last game but were not on Thursday’s injury report.
Boston’s top-ranked defense should have the edge against a Suns team limping to the finish line. Expect Tatum and Porzingis to lead the charge offensively as the Celtics look to reassert their dominance at home.
Phoenix Suns Overview
Phoenix (35-41) is on life support in the Western Conference playoff race, riding a four-game losing streak and sitting one spot outside the play-in tournament. The absence of both Kevin Durant (ankle) and Bradley Beal (hamstring) has drained their offensive firepower.
Durant, who dropped 30 in the last meeting with Boston, is unlikely to suit up until at least Tuesday. Beal remains sidelined with no concrete return date, and without their star tandem, the Suns have lacked scoring depth and consistency.
With just six games left, Phoenix faces an uphill climb. A loss here would be devastating to their postseason hopes, especially with Sacramento sitting just a game ahead in the standings.
Betting Trends & Prediction
Boston is 6-1 ATS in their last seven games at home following a loss.
Phoenix is 2-8 ATS in their last 10 games against winning teams.
The Over is 7-3 in Boston’s last 10 home games.
The Under is 4-1 in Phoenix’s last five road games.
Boston blew out the Suns 132-102 just last week in Phoenix, and that was without Jayson Tatum. With Phoenix still short-handed and fighting for survival, this is a tough spot to expect them to rise up. Boston is deeper, healthier, and more motivated after a humbling loss.
Final Score Prediction: Boston 120, Phoenix 103
Best Bets: Boston -14.5 | Under 228.0
Player Props to Watch:
Kristaps Porzingis Over 20.5 Points
Jayson Tatum Over 7.5 Rebounds
Celtics Team Total Under 121.0 Points
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
