Phoenix Suns vs. Boston Celtics 3/14/24 – As the NBA season progresses, matchups between top-tier teams become increasingly significant, not just for the playoffs seeding but for bettors seeking the top NBA betting picks. On Thursday an intriguing clash is on the schedule as the Phoenix Suns, holding a solid 38-27 record, visit the Boston Celtics, who are leading with an impressive 49-14 record. This game is not just a showdown between two of the league’s elite teams but also a matchup featuring some of the most prominent talents in the NBA today.
| When: | Thursday, March 14, 2024 at 7:30 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | TD Garden |
| TV: | TNT |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) March 13, 2024
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Suns | +5.5 -110 | o229 -110 | +214 |  |
| Celtics | -5.5 -110 | u229 -110 | -256 | |
| ||||
Kevin Durant (PF) vs. Jayson Tatum (SF)
Kevin Durant, a forward for the Phoenix Suns who was without a doubt outstanding this season, has been nothing less than spectacular. In 57 games, Durant has demonstrated his well-rounded skills scoring 28.3 points average, 6.7 rebounds and 5.5 assists per game. He is able to impact the way the game is played, not only on one side of the floor, but on both sides, along with his high scoring efficiency and excellent defensive skills. Nevertheless, his 3.4 turnover rate per game could be the blemish in the plan against a team like Celtics that excels off turnovers.
On one hand, Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics has been a reliable symbol of standards and exceptional play. Tatum played in 60 games and had 26.9 points, 8.5 rebounds per game, and 4.9 assists. His ability to both score and be a defender, along with his rebounding skills, gives the Celtics a multipurpose tool to use in the front court. It is important to note that Tatum has a lower turnover rate than Durant and audiences can expect him to make his presence felt on defence. Tatum could probably win the match up.
When Durant and Tatum face each other, it will be the fight between the titans, where each player’s best abilities may nullify the other one’s game. Durant’s scoring and playmaking vs. Tatum’s versatile game and accuracy will be ultimately important factors in the respective performances of the teams. As it is the case with an important clash in the game, players from both teams will try to take the advantage.
Team Dynamics and Tactical Matchups
The Suns are coming to this contest with an offensive applause receiving thanks of 117 points per game by the virtue of their shooting accuracy rating of 49.2%. From a statistics viewpoint, you can clearly see Durant and the scoring that he is responsible for, and also the great playmaking he produces, but the team also benefitted from a rounded bench that made their marks on both sides of the floor. On the other side, their completion of only 14.1 out of 100 had turnovers for them, and this could be a liability against the Celtics that are known for their great defense and pressure applied to the opponent
Celtics’ Cohesion and Strategic Depth
The Celtics, as a leading side in the league with an average of 120.7 points per match, have displayed an outstanding offensive roster. Their basketball ability to stretch the floor wide open with an average of 16.2 3-pointer field goals made per game with a 38.5% shooting accuracy is inspirational and is their very own corporate prowess and skillfulness. Tatum, aided as much by a competent all-around cast that helps the team in both transitional and half-court settings, represents an intimidating proposition for any team’s defense.
NBA Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
As the betting odds for this matchup have yet to be determined, bettors are advised to keep a close eye on updates. Given the Celtics’ impressive record and home-court advantage, they might emerge as favorites, but the Suns’ capability to upset cannot be underestimated.
Trends
Phoenix Suns Betting Trends
Suns are 2-3 in their last 5 games.
Phoenix Suns are 1-4 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Suns are 14-15 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 0 of Suns’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 16 of Suns’ 35 last games at home.
Boston Celtics Betting Trends
Celtics are 3-2 in their last 5 games.
Boston Celtics are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Celtics are 13-15 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 2 of Celtics’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 15 of Celtics’ 32 last games at home.
Injuries
Phoenix Suns
Eric Gordon SG Is “?” Thursday vs Boston, Knee
Damion Lee SG Is out indefinitely, Knee
Josh Okogie SG Is downgraded to OUT Thursday vs Boston, Abdominal
Nassir Little SF Is upgraded to probable Thursday vs Boston, Knee
Boston Celtics
Al Horford C Is upgraded to probable Thursday vs Phoenix, Toe
Kristaps Porzingis PF Is downgraded to OUT Thursday vs Phoenix, Hamstring
Jaylen Brown SF Is “?” Thursday vs Phoenix, Back
Phoenix Suns vs. Boston Celtics Betting Picks
Looking at the plays of the two teams and the evaluation of the previous games of the teams, we expect the match to be equally competitive. Despite the fact that the Celtics have a profound scoring capacity and the advantage of playing at home can favor them in the game. Bettors should keep their eyes peeled for a possible Celtics cover, particularly if the spread provides the calculated amount.
This prediction leans towards the Celtics, not just because of their impressive season record but also due to their strategic depth and home advantage. Betting on Boston, especially through the best online sportsbook, offers a potentially lucrative opportunity for those looking to capitalize on this high-profile NBA showdown. Sign up today to make your NBA betting prediction!
Score Prediction: Celtics 115, Suns 108.
