Boston Celtics vs Golden State Warriors Predictions, Odds & Picks

• The Boston Celtics are looking to climb into the top three of the Eastern Conference with a win!
• The Golden State Warriors hope to continue their winning ways after a blowout victory against Detroit!
• Boston will be without Marcus Smart in this match.

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Celtics vs Warriors Predictions and Picks

It is certainly a difficult game to pick, with Boston opening as narrow favorites. We’re giving the match to the Celtics, whose depth and versatility will overcome the shallow attack of the Warriors.

Picks:

Boston Celtics to Win (-143)

Over 224.5 (-112)

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How to Watch Celtics vs Warriors

Head-to-Head: Celtics vs Warriors

Is Boston’s Defence Actually This Bad?

The Boston Celtics are usually known as a versatile defensive team, capable of many of the NBA‘s various matchups. However, through the 2020-2021 campaign, they’ve struggled to protect their house.

The Celtics are 12th overall in defensive rating, falling well below their mark last season. Even more concerning, while they’re second overall in field-goal attempts allowed the Celtics are 21st overall in field-goal percentage allowed.

Boston has struggled with Thompson on the court. While he’s their best rebounder, he’s struggled to keep pace with today’s NBA teams and their ball movement. Against a speedy Warriors team who loves to move the ball, Thompson must show value early or he’ll get a quick hook in favor of a smaller lineup.

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Can the Warriors Find Value in Depth?

The Golden State Warriors are much improved after last season, unsurprising considering the return of two-time MVP Stephen Curry. But while they’ve defeated the lesser teams of the NBA, they can’t seem to get over the hump presented by the elite of the league. All signs point to their lack of depth.

The Warriors are in the top ten in field-goal attempts, while also being fifth overall in assists per game. They’ve maintained their offensive flow, but they’ve fallen short due to a lack of production past Curry and Wiggins.

The Warriors lack scoring options, making them incredibly predictable in the clutch. In order to take down the Celtics, they’ll need a big night from a third player that can support Curry and Wiggins. Kelly Oubre and Eric Paschall are the first two players that come to mind.

Celtics Key Player: (G) Jaylen Brown

After Jayson Tatum exploded on to the scene last season, Brown has looked intent on making his impact on the league this season. Averaging career highs across the board, Brown looks like an absolute star.

Brown is averaging 27.1 points per game, 5.4 rebounds per game, and 1.4 steals on 53.1% from the field and 44.3% from three. While the young stars’ volume has increased, his efficiency has improved along with it.

The Celtics will need every point that Brown can provide against a fast-paced Warriors team. He’ll lead their offense, but also be tasked with chasing Stephen Curry on the defensive end.

Warriors Key Player: (F) Andrew Wiggins

It seems like he’s been in the NBA for a lifetime now, but at just 25 years old Andrew Wiggins is finally finding his feet in the NBA.

Wiggins’ role with the Warriors is perfect for him. A true two-way threat, but lacking in terms of individual creativity, Wiggin’s focus on the defensive end has revitalized his career.

His defensive focus couldn’t come at a better time either, as the rangy forward will be asked to mark two of the toughest wing players in the league in Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown.