Boston Celtics (25-6) vs. Oklahoma City Thunder (21-9)
Boston Celtics vs. Oklahoma City Thunder January 2, 2024 – On Tuesday at Paycom Center will take place an eagerly-anticipated match-up between Boston Celtics and Oklahoma City Thunder. This game has garnered considerable anticipation among both fans and bettors, especially those engaging with USA online betting sites – two of the league’s premier teams will collide for what should be an impressive display of basketball!
Boston Celtics vs. Oklahoma City Thunder January 2, 2024 Game Info
| When: | Tuesday, January 2, 2024, at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Paycom Center |
| TV: | BSOK |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Jaylen Brown (SG) vs. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (PG)
Jaylen Brown has taken his game to another level this season, averaging a career-high 22.9 points per game to go along with 5.1 rebounds and 3.7 assists. His scoring prowess and defensive versatility will be key if the Celtics hope to slow down OKC’s high-powered offense. However, Brown has struggled with turnover issues this season, coughing up the ball 2.6 times per contest. He will need to limit mistakes against the Thunder’s disruptive defense.
Meanwhile, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has inserted himself into the MVP conversation by leading the league in scoring with 31.4 points per game. In addition to his elite scoring, Gilgeous-Alexander contributes 5.7 rebounds, 6.3 assists and 2.7 steals per game. His rare combination of size, skill and athleticism at the point guard position makes him a matchup nightmare. However, the Thunder star has dealt with some minor injury issues this year. The Celtics could look to exploit this by attacking him relentlessly on both ends of the floor.
This matchup between two of the best young wings in basketball could determine the outcome of this highly anticipated showdown. Both players seem poised for big-time performances given their expansive skill sets. Whoever gets the better of this head-to-head battle could lead their team to victory.
Boston Celtics: Statistical Strengths
The Celtics have been impressive, scoring 120.3 points per game on average while boasting a 48.1% field goal percentage and 37.5% three-point shooting accuracy, as well as an 80.6% free throw percentage. Rebounding (47 per game) and assists (25.7 per game) also underscore their balanced approach while managing turnovers (12.5 per game) could prove crucial in this high-stakes contest.
Oklahoma City Thunder: Formidable Contenders
The Thunder have kept up their opponents’ intensity, scoring 121.2 points per game on average and leading with a 49.7% field goal percentage. Their three-point accuracy (38.6%) and free throw shooting (85.3%) make them a formidable offensive team, while on defense they rank among the league leaders with 40.9 rebounds per game and 8.5 steals per game respectively while staying disciplined to reduce fouls (20.8 per game).
NBA Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
The betting odds for this matchup will be a crucial indicator of how oddsmakers view the balance of power. Given the high scoring nature of both teams, the over/under will be a key figure for bettors to watch.
Boston Celtics Betting Trends
Celtics are 5-0 in their last 5 games.
Celtics are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Boston Celtics are 5-8 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 5 of Celtics’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 9 of Celtics’ 16 last games at home.
Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Trends
Thunder are 4-1 in their last 5 games.
OKC Thunder are 4-1 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Thunder are 9-3 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 4 of Thunder’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 11 of Thunder’ 17 last games at home.
Boston Celtics vs. Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Picks
Considering the analysis and recent trends, this game is poised to be a closely contested battle. The Celtics’ offensive firepower makes them a strong pick, but the Thunder’s consistent performance, especially against the spread, cannot be underestimated.
For those seeking expert basketball betting tips, looking at prop bets for individual player performances could be lucrative. The over/under bet will depend on whether both teams continue their trend of high-scoring games.
Receiving Yards Prop: Celtics 108, Thunder 104.
