The Boston Celtics are 7-2 straight up and against the spread in their last nine games. Also, they expect Gordon Hayward to be back for the Raptors vs Celtics game. Although Boston is struggling in Toronto in recent matchups, the Raptors have three vital players out for the game.
At home, the Raptors are 8-0 against the spread when facing the Celtics. However, they have three injured players, making them the three-point underdogs for the game. The TOTAL opened at 213.5 points, which is low considering both teams are second and third in the league in opponent FG percentage. Also, they are among the top ten teams in points against them.
Betting Prediction and Analysis for 12/25/2019
Basketball betting sites announced Marc Gasol, Norman Powell, and Pascal Siakam will not be part of the Raptors’ lineup. The team said they are out indefinitely. As a result, the team will miss a combined total of 94 minutes, 46 points, and 19 rebounds for the Christmas game.
Despite the injuries, betting odds makers know the Raptors will continue with their energetic performance. They are 5-1 ATS and SU in recent games. Also, Kyle Lowry is scoring 29.3 points a game to make up for the three injured players.
However, Lowry will have a hard time against the Celtics. They can throw away their 8-0 ATS and SU against the Celtics at home due to the injury bug.
On the other hand, Marcus Smart and Gordon Hayward will not be part of the Celtics’ lineup. Despite their absence, the Celtics won against the Hornets last Sunday. Carrying the team in scoring were Jayson Tatum with 39 points, Kemba Walker with 23, and Jaylen Brown with 16.
Raptors vs Celtics Pick
Game time: 12/25/2019 at Noon ET
Bet on the Celtics at -3
Our basketball betting pick is the Celtics. Hayward might be back for the game, while the Raptors are missing key players.
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