Two of the Eastern Conference’s powerhouses are set to do battle at TD Garden on Friday night, in what could be a preview of a playoff matchup that could take place in the spring.
The Celtics were once looked upon as the clear favorite to win the Eastern Conference, but the Raptors, Sixers and Bucks have spoiled their party, big-time. In fact, Boston currently sits in fifth place, and is coming off one of its worst losses of the season, a 111-103 loss to the 8-24 Suns. It was starting to look as if they had finally hit their stride, having won eight straight games, but they then went on to lose back-to-back games to the Pistons and Suns.
As for the Bucks, they began the season hot, and have not cooled down since. They’re 21-9, and have won three straight contests. Giannis Antetokounmpo is playing at an MVP level, although it’s interesting to note that the Celtics have held him in check — by his standards, at least. They’ve attempted to defend him with a combination of Aron Baynes, Al Horford and others, however, both of those two players are currently injured, and won’t play in Friday’s game.
The Celtics don’t really have an answer for The Greek Freak, and if the Bucks are hitting shots from the perimeter, they could be too much for the C’s, who just aren’t playing well right now, and have issues with consistency in their lineup.
Bucks-Celtics Highlights and Fixture Information
Date: Friday, Dec. 21
Time: 8 p.m. EST/1 a.m. BST (Saturday, Dec. 22)
Live Stream to Watch Online: NBA League Pass
TV Info: NBC Sports Boston, Fox Sports Wisconsin
Where to bet legally on Bucks-Celtics in USA: Heading into the season, the Celtics probably would’ve been laying five or six points at home, but they’ve been struggling, and are coming off a loss to the hapless Suns. As such, they’re only 1.5-point favorites, so if looking to bet the game, visit one of the best handicapping advice websites out there, for all the knowledge you need on the contest.
Prediction: Bucks 111, Celtics 107
Add The Sports Daily to your Google News Feed!
