The Denver Nuggets and Boston Celtics take center stage in a marquee matchup airing on ABC, pitting two powerhouse teams against each other in what could be a preview of the NBA Finals. The defending champion Celtics, led by Jayson Tatum, have been a dominant force in the Eastern Conference, while Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets remain a perennial threat out West. This game promises high stakes and higher intensity as both teams vie for supremacy late in the regular season. Expect a tight contest at TD Garden, with Boston’s elite defense facing off against Denver’s potent offense. 

 

 

 

Denver Nuggets: Denver’s Drafted Three

The Nuggets’ storyline heading into this matchup revolves around Nikola Jokic’s relentless pursuit of another MVP award. The three-time MVP has been a statistical juggernaut this season, averaging career-highs in points while continuing to orchestrate Denver’s offense with surgical precision. After a sluggish start to the 2024-25 campaign, the Nuggets have found their rhythm, climbing the Western Conference standings with a revitalized supporting cast. Russell Westbrook has added grit and energy, while Jamal Murray and Michael Porter’s shooting remains a critical X-factor. The developed talent of their three draft picks has carried them to one of the best of the decade, only the Boston Celtics can rival as better in the 2020s. Facing the Celtics offers Denver a chance to prove they can hang with the league’s elite—a statement win could solidify their status as true contenders.

 

 

 

Boston Celtics: Chasing Back-to-Back Glory

For the Boston Celtics, the narrative is all about defending their crown and chasing history. With an 18th championship in the bag last June, the Celtics are on a mission to become the first team since the 2018 Warriors to win back-to-back titles. Jayson Tatum, a top-five MVP candidate, continues to elevate his game, blending scoring prowess with improved playmaking. Boston’s suffocating defense, anchored by Jrue Holiday and Derrick White, has kept them near the top of the East, even though the Cleveland Cavaliers won their most recent match. Boston has lost two in a row and are only 2.5 games ahead of the New York Knicks as leaders of the Atlantic Conference. Expect Boston to start quickly and attempt to hold down a high scoring Nuggets offense.

 

 

 

Nuggets vs Celtics Odds, Spreads, Total & Betting Lines

The Boston Celtics are expected to win against the Denver Nuggets, below is the moneyline. Spread, and total for the 1:00 PM match.

  • Moneyline: Nuggets +114 | Celtics -135
  • Spread: Celtics -2.5 (-110) | Nuggets +2.5 (-110)
  • Total (Over/Under): 236.5 (-110 both sides)

The total reflects expectations of a high-scoring affair, given Murray and Jokic's offensive output and Boston’s ability to light it up from beyond the arc. Bettors should monitor line movement closer to tip-off, as public perception and injury updates could shift these numbers.

 

 

 

Nuggets vs Celtics Prediction: Michael Porter O7.5 Rebounds (+105 on BetMGM)

This has been a profitable wager for this column and our NBA Best Bets found on Fantasy Alarm. Michel Porter Jr. is a length forward that has an advantage over most teams. He has been doing a little bit of everything for the Nuggets, including earning more rebounds. He has eight or more rebounds in every game since the All-Star break. That includes lineups with and without Aaron Gordon, minutes as the starter and playing with a backup unit, and against five different opponents.

There is more than one reason for this as well. First and foremost the Denver coaching staff saw an opportunity to put Porter in a better position to get more rebounds. Second, he is playing with more aggression, picking up fouls but playing tough around the rim and really using his length to his advantage. Third and last, Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic are both scoring well, and they are both ball dominant. Porter is forced to be a rebounder to get a rhythm in the game and contribute in ways outside of scoring. He averaged 9.4 rebounds per game in February, and 6.8 over the season. The sportsbooks have jumped up his line above his average and it is at plus odds. Put a unit on it and expect him to continue his streak of eight or more rebounds.

 

 

 

How To Bet On Nuggets vs Celtics at BetMGM Sportsbook & Claim Your $1,500 Bonus

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