Boston Celtics Aim to Extend Win Streak Against Struggling New Orleans Pelicans
As basketball aficionados gather at the storied TD Garden, anticipation for an intense showdown between the Boston Celtics and the New Orleans Pelicans is palpable. The clash, scheduled for Sunday, January 12, 2025, at 6 p.m. ET, promises to be a thrilling chapter in the NBA season, with significant implications for both teams.
Celtics on the Rise
The Boston Celtics are in robust form, coming off a decisive lead against the Pelicans by the end of the third quarter with a score of 105-102. Currently holding a 27-11 record, the Celtics are poised to enhance their standing to 28-11. Their offensive prowess was notably highlighted when they outperformed their total points from a recent game against the Kings merely by the third quarter against the Pelicans.
The Celtics' prowess was largely subdued in their last outing against the Kings, where they suffered a 114-97 defeat. Star player Jaylen Brown shone brightly in that game despite the loss, scoring 28 points and dishing out five assists. Complementing Brown’s efforts, Kristaps Porzingis contributed 22 points and pulled down ten rebounds. This duo's outstanding performances are crucial as the Celtics aim to capitalize on their current momentum.
Challenges for the Pelicans
Contrastingly, the New Orleans Pelicans are attempting to claw their way back from a challenging season. With a record of 8-31, the team is eager to tweak it to 9-32 with a victory in Boston. The Pelicans recently notched a gratifying win against the Philadelphia 76ers, triumphing with a scoreline of 123-115. CJ McCollum was instrumental in that victory, delivering an impressive 38 points and nailing six three-point attempts. The team's ball movement was also commendable, as they amassed a total of 31 assists.
Despite this recent success, the Pelicans face a formidable challenge against the Celtics. Boston has historically had the upper hand, winning seven of their last ten encounters against New Orleans. Notably, in March 2024, the Celtics secured a 104-92 victory over the Pelicans. However, New Orleans has shown they can be a worthy adversary, evidenced by their 120-115 win over Boston back in February 2021.
Betting Favors the Home Team
The latest NBA odds favor Boston, with the team entering the game as a significant 14.5-point favorite. The over/under for the event is set at 226 points, suggesting anticipation of a high-scoring affair. Fans interested in witnessing this spectacle live can secure their presence at TD Garden, with tickets priced at $76 each.
This matchup not only serves as an opportunity for the Celtics to solidify their status as one of the league’s top contenders but also offers the Pelicans a chance to prove their resilience amidst adversity. Whether Boston extends its winning streak or New Orleans conjures an upset remains to be seen. Regardless, as the Celtics and Pelicans step onto the court, the stage is undoubtedly set for a captivating clash.