Boston Celtics vs Toronto Raptors : Prediction and Picks - February 25, 2025

The Boston Celtics are set to face the Toronto Raptors on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at 7:00 PM ET at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto. This matchup features two Atlantic Division rivals on opposite trajectories this season.

Team Performance and Standings

• Boston Celtics (41-16): The Celtics are currently second in the Eastern Conference, trailing the Cleveland Cavaliers by six games. They are on a five-game winning streak and have secured victories in nine of their last ten outings. In their most recent game, Boston defeated the New York Knicks 118-105, with Jayson Tatum contributing 25 points, 10 rebounds, and nine assists. The Celtics' offense ranks sixth in the league, averaging 117.4 points per game, while their defense is third-best, allowing 108 points per game.

• Toronto Raptors (18-39): The Raptors are positioned 13th in the Eastern Conference, 4.5 games behind the Chicago Bulls for the final play-in spot. They have struggled recently, losing six of their last eight games. However, they are coming off a 127-109 victory over the Phoenix Suns, where RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, and Chris Boucher each scored 23 points. Toronto's offense ranks 22nd, averaging 110.9 points per game, and their defense stands at 25th, conceding 116.5 points per game.

Key Players

Boston Celtics:

• Jayson Tatum (SF): Leading the team with 26.8 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game.

• Jaylen Brown (SG): Averaging 22.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game.

• Kristaps Porzingis (PF/C): Contributing 19.2 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game.

• Derrick White (PG/SG): Adding 16.2 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game.

• Toronto Raptors:

• • RJ Barrett (SF): Leading the team with 21.9 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game.

  • Scottie Barnes (PF): Averaging 19.9 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game.

  • Jakob Poeltl (C): Contributing 14.2 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game.

  • Gradey Dick (SG): Adding 14.8 points and 3.5 rebounds per game.

Injury Updates

• Boston Celtics:

  • Jrue Holiday (PG): Out for rest.

  • Al Horford (C): Questionable due to a toe injury.

  • Luke Kornet (C): Out for personal reasons.

  • Neemias Queta (C): Probable, recovering from illness.

  • Xavier Tillman (PF): Probable with a knee issue.

• Toronto Raptors:

  • Gradey Dick (SG): Probable with a thigh injury.

  • Jakob Poeltl (C): Questionable due to a hip issue.

Betting Insights

• Point Spread: Celtics favored by 11 points.

• Over/Under: Set at 226.5 points.

• Moneyline: Celtics -521, Raptors +400.

Prediction

Considering the Celtics' recent form and the Raptors' ongoing struggles, Boston is favored to secure a victory in this matchup. The Celtics' balanced offense and staunch defense present a significant challenge for the undermanned Raptors. However, Toronto's recent win against Phoenix indicates they shouldn't be underestimated, especially on their home court. Bettors should monitor injury reports closely, as the availability of key players like Al Horford and Jakob Poeltl could influence the game's dynamics.

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