The Oklahoma City Thunder visit the Boston Celtics on Wednesday night at TD Garden. The Thunder lead the Western Conference at 53-12, while the Celtics hold the No. 2 spot in the East with a 47-18 record. This is the second meeting between these teams this season, with Oklahoma City winning 105-92 back on January 5.
Boston enters this matchup on a five-game win streak after surviving a late scare against the Utah Jazz. Oklahoma City saw its seven-game win streak end Monday night in a 140-127 loss to Denver.
Oklahoma City Preview – Looking to Bounce Back
The Thunder are led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who is averaging 32.7 points per game and remains one of the frontrunners for the NBA MVP award. Gilgeous-Alexander had 33 points and 11 rebounds when Oklahoma City defeated Boston earlier this season. His ability to control the pace of the game is key for the Thunder’s offense.
Forward Jalen Williams is questionable for this game after suffering a hip injury against Denver. He has been averaging 21.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.3 assists this season. If he misses time, the Thunder may rely more heavily on Chet Holmgren, who is posting solid defensive numbers.
Oklahoma City’s offense ranks fourth in the league at 119.1 points per game. The Thunder are also one of the best shooting teams in the league, hitting 47.6% from the field and 36.4% from three-point range.
Boston Preview – Protecting the Home Court
Boston continues to roll despite dealing with injuries to key players. Jayson Tatum (27.2 ppg) missed Monday’s win over Utah with a knee issue, while Kristaps Porzingis has been out with a viral illness. Both are listed as day-to-day and their availability could significantly impact this matchup.
Jaylen Brown has stepped up during Tatum’s absence, scoring 26 points with eight rebounds and seven assists in Boston’s latest victory. Sam Hauser added 33 points in that game, showing his ability to provide a scoring boost when needed.
The Celtics rely on their defense, ranking third in the NBA by allowing just 108.2 points per game. They also limit opponents to 45.3% shooting from the field, making them a strong defensive unit at home.
Betting Prediction
Oklahoma City enters this game as a slight underdog, and their recent loss to Denver raises concerns. However, with Gilgeous-Alexander in top form, they remain a tough matchup for any opponent. Boston’s injury concerns could hurt their scoring potential if Tatum and Porzingis remain sidelined.
Look for Oklahoma City’s strong offense to push the tempo, but Boston’s defense should keep things close. The under has hit frequently for Boston this season, making that a strong betting angle.
Pick: Oklahoma City +3 / Under 222.5
Trends to Watch
- Oklahoma City: Has covered the spread in 48 of their last 80 games (+17.20 Units / 20% ROI).
- Oklahoma City: Has hit the 1Q Moneyline in 29 of their last 38 away games (+16.80 Units / 23% ROI).
- Boston: Has hit the Team Total Under in 48 of their last 71 games (+22.05 Units / 27% ROI).
- Boston: Has hit the Game Total Under in 42 of their last 71 games (+10.10 Units / 13% ROI).
This should be a great game, and a possible NBA Finals preview!
