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Boston Celtics vs. New Orleans Pelicans: January 31, 2025 – Game Preview and Betting Insights
Team Performance Overview
Boston Celtics
The Boston Celtics have showcased a strong offensive performance this season, averaging 117.3 points per game with a shooting accuracy of 45.7%. Defensively, they have been solid, conceding 108.3 points per game while allowing opponents a 45.1% shooting rate. Jayson Tatum leads the team with an impressive average of 26.7 points and 9 rebounds per game. Jaylen Brown contributes significantly with 23.2 points and 6 rebounds per game. Kristaps Porzingis adds depth, averaging 19 points and 8 rebounds per game. The Celtics’ proficiency from beyond the arc stands at 36.5%, and they maintain a free-throw percentage of 79.4%. On the defensive end, they limit opponents to 35% shooting from three-point range and secure an average of 45 rebounds per game.
New Orleans Pelicans
The New Orleans Pelicans have faced challenges this season, averaging 109.7 points per game on 44.5% shooting, while allowing 118.1 points per game with opponents shooting 48.3%. Zion Williamson leads the team with 23.6 points and 8.2 rebounds per game. Brandon Ingram follows closely, averaging 22.2 points and 5.6 rebounds per game. CJ McCollum adds to the offense with 18 points and 6 assists per game. The Pelicans’ three-point shooting stands at 34.5%, and they have a free-throw percentage of 76.5%. Defensively, they allow opponents a 36.5% success rate from three-point range and average 42.9 rebounds per game.
Recent Performance and Betting Trends
Boston Celtics
In their recent games, the Celtics secured a victory against the Chicago Bulls but suffered a loss to the Houston Rockets. Looking ahead, they are scheduled to face the Philadelphia 76ers, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Dallas Mavericks. Notably, the Celtics have struggled to cover the spread in each of their last nine night games following a home win. However, they have covered the spread in five of their last six road games against Southwest Division opponents.
New Orleans Pelicans
The Pelicans recently faced defeats against the Toronto Raptors and Dallas Mavericks. Their upcoming games include matchups against the Denver Nuggets, Sacramento Kings, and Oklahoma City Thunder. The Pelicans have failed to cover the spread in each of their last five games. However, they have covered the spread in three of their last four games against the Celtics following a home loss.
Injury Updates
For the Pelicans, Brandon Ingram and Herbert Jones are sidelined due to injuries. Daniel Theis is doubtful with a thumb injury, and Jordan Hawkins is questionable due to illness. The Celtics’ Sam Hauser is questionable with a hip injury.
Prediction and Betting Insights
The Boston Celtics are favored in this matchup, given their superior season performance and the Pelicans’ injury challenges. However, the Celtics have struggled to cover large spreads this season, holding a 19-28-1 record against the spread (ATS). They are 8-11 ATS in their last 19 games as double-digit favorites. The Pelicans, despite their struggles, have seen eight of their 12 wins come at home. In their previous meeting earlier this month, the Pelicans narrowly lost by one point as double-digit underdogs. Considering these factors, taking the Pelicans with the points could be a prudent choice.
Insights
How have the Celtics performed against the spread as double-digit favorites?
The Celtics are 8-11 against the spread in their last 19 games as double-digit favorites.
What is the Pelicans’ home performance this season?
The Pelicans have secured eight of their 12 wins at home this season.
Who are the key players to watch in this matchup?
For the Celtics, Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown are pivotal, while the Pelicans will rely heavily on Zion Williamson and CJ McCollum, especially with Brandon Ingram sidelined.
What are the recent betting trends for both teams?
The Celtics have struggled to cover the spread in night games following a home win, whereas the Pelicans have failed to cover the spread in their last five games but have had success covering against the Celtics following a home loss.
How significant are the current injuries for both teams?
The Pelicans are notably impacted with key players like Brandon Ingram and Herbert Jones out, which could affect their performance. The Celtics have fewer injury concerns, with only Sam Hauser listed as questionable.
In conclusion, while the Boston Celtics are favored to win, the New Orleans Pelicans’ home advantage and recent performance against the spread suggest that they could cover the point spread in this matchup.
