Boston Celtics vs Toronto Raptors Prediction & Betting Tips - NBA

Prediction published on 11/11/2023, 08:02  by Joseph King | Modified on 11/11/2023 at 11:00 in NBA Prediction

The second-place Boston Celtics host the ninth-place Toronto Raptors for this NBA Eastern Conference clash on Saturday night. The Celtics were able to put and end to a two game losing streak last night in their NBA Cup matchup against the Brooklyn Nets. Boston ran out 121-107 winners over Brooklyn at the TD Garden, marking the second double digit win over the Nets in the last week and moving their record to 6-2. The challenge here will be the Celtics having to deal with playing this game as the second of a back-to-back and their third game in the last four days. Boston ranks at the top of many statistical metrics and are the bookmakers’ favorite to win the NBA championship. They’ve undoubtedly been one of the most impressive squads so far and their +12.7 average scoring margin ranks as the highest in the league.

The Raptors take on Boston for the first time this season as they look to push their current winning streak to three games. Toronto managed a 127-119 road win over the red-hot Dallas Mavericks in their most recent appearance on Wednesday to move to 4-4 on the year. They’ll come into this matchup with a significant rest advantage but having to deal with playing the fourth and final game of a four game road trip. After a slow 1-3 start to the season under their new head coach, Darko Rajakovic’s team has now won three of their last four. They have some big scalps under their belt as well, knocking off the 6-2 Timberwolves, 7-2 Mavs and 5-3 Bucks. Now into his third season, Scottie Barnes has taken a noticeable leap in his game and will be pushing for his first All-Star selection. The 22-year-old is averaging 21.5 points per game, 10.4 rebounds, 6.0 assists and 2.1 blocks.