Boston Celtics vs. Miami Heat odds predictions pick betting line spread

Boston Celtics at Miami Heat Game 4 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s Boston Celtics at Miami Heat odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The top-seeded Boston Celtics meet the 8-seed Miami Heat in Game 4 of a best-of-7 Western Conference, 1st-round series Monday. The Celtics lead the series 2-1. Tip-off from Kaseya Center is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET (TNT). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Celtics vs. Heat odds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions.

The Celtics bounced back from their Game 2 loss at home with a dominant 104-84 Game 3 victory over the Heat. F Jayson Tatum and G Jaylen Brown each had 22 points in the victory. Tatum also added 10 rebounds and 6 assists for Boston, which led Game 3 wire-to-wire and reclaimed the home-court edge.

C Bam Adebayo scored 20 or more points for the 3rd time this series, which is surprising given the fact that Boston outscored the Heat 42-36 in the paint. Miami also got 15 points each from G Tyler Herro and F Nikola Jovic in the loss.

The Heat need to protect the ball better and someone to help Adebayo on the offensive end or this series will end back in Boston in Game 5.

Celtics at Heat odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:52 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Celtics -550 (bet $550 to win $100) | Heat
+400 (bet $100 to win $400)
Against the spread (ATS): Celtics -10.5 (-110) | Heat +10.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 203.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Celtics at Heat key injuries

Celtics

None

Heat

F Jimmy Butler (knee) out
G Terry Rozier (neck) out

For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Celtics at Heat picks and predictions

Prediction

Celtics 110, Heat 97

Moneyline

The Celtics (-550) will win this game, but no way am I betting over 5 units to win 1 back. I’ll be saving my wager for the spread in this one.

PASS.

Against the spread

Take the CELTICS -10.5 (-110) in this one. Boston got its wake-up call in Game 2 and took care of business in Game 3. The Heat don’t have the depth to keep up with this well-oiled machine in Boston.

The scary thing is, Boston won by 20 and did not really play all that well in Game 3. The Celtics have won 8 of their last 10 straight up against the Heat and covered the spread in 2 of 3 games in this series thus far.

Over/Under

I really want to take the Under, but this number has gotten too low for me. If it were 205 or higher, I’d jump on it. The Under has gone 2-1 in this series, but this is the lowest number we’ve seen.

I’m going to PASS.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow @DrewPhelps05 on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1368]

Boston Celtics at Miami Heat Game 3 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Boston Celtics at Miami Heat odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The top-seeded Boston Celtics battle the 8th-seeded Miami Heat in Game 3 of a best-of-7 Eastern Conference, 1st-round series Saturday. The series is tied 1-1. Tip-off from Kaseya Center is scheduled for 6 p.m. ET (TNT). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Celtics vs. Heat odds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions.

Boston was upset 111-101 against the Heat in Game 2 Wednesday while failing to cover as a 14-point home favorite. G Jaylen Brown scored a game-high 33 points, while only 2 other Celtics players scored in double figures. The Celtics shot 46.3% from the field in the loss.

G Tyler Herro scored a team-high 24 points on 6 of 11 from 3, while all 5 Heat starters scored in double figures. The Heat shot 49.3% from the field in the win.

Celtics at Heat odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:50 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Celtics -450 (bet $450 to win $100) | Heat +333 (bet $100 to win $333)
Against the spread (ATS): Celtics -9.5 (-110) | Heat +9.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 204.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Celtics at Heat key injuries

Celtics

None

Heat

F Jimmy Butler (knee) out
F Haywood Highsmith (arm) available
F Kevin Love (arm) available
F Duncan Robinson (back) available
G Terry Rozier (neck) out
G Delon Wright (personal reasons) questionable

For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Celtics at Heat picks and predictions

Prediction

Celtics 109, Heat 103

Moneyline

PASS.

There is no value on the top-ranked Celtics (-450), who are 27-14 on the road this season, to take down the Heat, who are 23-19 at home.

Against the spread

LEAN HEAT +9.5 (-110).

Miami is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 games, including 2-1 ATS in its last 3 as an underdog, while Boston is just 3-5-2 ATS in its last 10. With the Heat stealing a game on the road, expect them to keep it close in Game 3.

Over/Under

BET OVER 204.5 (-105).

Both the Celtics and Heat have hit the Over in 7 of their last 10 games, including the 1st 2 in this series.

Boston has scored 101 or more points in 9 of its last 10 games, including 114 or more in 6 of its last 10.

Miami has scored 111 or more points in 7 of its last 10 games. With this low of a total, hammer the Over.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow @seth_orlemann on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1368]

Boston Celtics at Miami Heat Game 6 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Boston Celtics at Miami Heat Game 6 odds and lines, with expert NBA picks, predictions and best bets.

The Boston Celtics and the Miami Heat meet for Game 6 of their best-of-7 Eastern Conference Finals series Saturday at Kaseya Center. The Heat lead the series 3-2. Tip is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. ET (TNT). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Celtics vs. Heat odds, and make our expert NBA picks and predictions

The Celtics slipped into an 0-3 series hole, but Boston hasn’t shown any signs of quitting. The C’s staved off elimination in Miami with a 116-99 win in Game 4 as 1-point ‘dogs and then routed the Heat 110-97 at TD Garden in Game 5 to force the series back to South Florida.

Defensive play has been the key for the Celtics. Miami scored an average of 120.7 points per game (PPG), with at least 111 in each of the 3 wins. The Heat have been held to just 99 and 97 points in their 2 losses.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Celtics at Heat odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 6:12 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Celtics -150 (bet $150 to win $100) | Heat +125 (bet $100 to win $125)
Against the spread (ATS): Celtics -2.5 (-115) | Heat +2.5 (-105)
Over/Under (O/U): 210.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Celtics at Heat key injuries

Celtics

G Malcolm Brogdon (forearm) questionable

Heat

G Gabe Vincent (ankle) questionable

For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.

Celtics at Heat picks and predictions

Prediction

Celtics 105, Heat 102

Moneyline

The CELTICS (-150) are moderate favorites on the road, which might be a little surprising to some. However, Boston seems to play best when its season is on the line, going 4-0 straight up (SU) and against the spread (ATS) in 4 games when facing elimination.

The Heat are 7-1 SU and 6-2 ATS in the past 8 postseason games on their home floor, so you can expect this to be a nail-biter finish. However, look for the C’s to force a Game 7 back in Boston.

Against the spread

CELTICS -2.5 (-115) is the play, but go lightly. I prefer the moneyline, even though it’s considerably more costly because I think this is going to be a 1-possession game.

The Heat have been money at the Kaseya Center, covering 6 of the past 8 outings, although their only straight-up loss during that span was Game 4 against the C’s.

Over/Under

UNDER 210.5 (-110) is the lean, but again, play it rather lightly.

Boston has returned to basics, playing tenacious defense and taking a little more care in the shot-selection department. Boston was jacking up wild shots over the first 3 games of the series, but it has been much more efficient in the past 2 outings, while also working to rag the clock a bit.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1368]

Boston Celtics at Miami Heat Game 4 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Boston Celtics at Miami Heat Game 4 odds and lines, with expert NBA picks, predictions and best bets.

The Boston Celtics and the Miami Heat meet for Game 4 of their best-of-7 Eastern Conference Finals series Tuesday at Kaseya Center. The Heat lead the series 3-0. Tip is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. ET (TNT). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Celtics vs. Heat odds, and make our expert NBA picks and predictions

The Celtics were blasted 128-102 in Game 3, and Boston is not only 0-3 straight up (SU) in this series, but also 0-3 against the spread (ATS). The Over has cashed in all 3 games to date, with Boston allowing 120.7 points per game (PPG) in the series.

The Heat have rattled off 4 straight victories, and have covered the spread in 10 of their past 12 games. The Over has connected in 5 of the past 6 games overall for the Heat, too.

Miami is 4-1 ATS in the past 5 in the Conference Finals round and is 5-0 ATS in the past 5 meetings against Boston.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Celtics at Heat odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:54 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Celtics +105 (bet $100 to win $105) | Heat -130 (bet $130 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Celtics +1.5 (-110) | Heat -1.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 216.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Celtics at Heat key injuries

Celtics

None

Heat

F Kevin Love (ankle) probable

For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.

Celtics at Heat picks and predictions

Prediction

Celtics 112, Heat 108

Moneyline

The CELTICS (+105) are worth a look as short ‘dogs in Game 4, as Boston will be able to extend its season at least 1 more game, shifting the series back to the Bay State for Game 5.

Boston is just 2-5 SU across the past 7 games overall, but it is 2-0 SU/ATS in 2 games this postseason when facing elimination.

Against the spread

CELTICS +1.5 (-110) is worth a look if you want a sliver of insurance, rather than picking them straight up on the moneyline.

The Celtics are 4-1 ATS in the past 5 trips to South Florida while going 4-1 ATS in the past 5 games on the road overall. Boston is also 7-3 ATS in the past 10 games after a straight-up loss, while going 8-3 ATS in the past 11 after a non-cover.

Boston has its backs to the wall, and it will play with enough urgency to avoid the same fate as the rival Los Angeles Lakers, who were swept out of the postseason by the Denver Nuggets in the Western Conference Finals Monday.

Over/Under

OVER 216.5 (-110) is the lean, ever so slightly.

The Over is 6-1 in the past 7 games on the road for the Celtics, while going 11-3 in the past 14 games overall. The Over has hit in 4 of the past 5 games in the Conference Finals for the C’s, too.

For the Heat, the Over has cashed in 11 of the past 13 games at Kaseya Center, while going 25-10 in the past 35 games in the Conference Finals round. The Over has cashed in 5 of the previous 6 meetings in South Florida, too.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1368]

Boston Celtics at Miami Heat Game 3 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Boston Celtics at Miami Heat Game 3 odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Boston Celtics take on the Miami Heat Sunday at Kaseya Center for Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals. Miami leads 2-0. Tip-off is set for 8:30 p.m. ET (TNT). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Celtics vs. Heat odds, and make our expert NBA picks and predictions.

The Heat are in the driver’s seat. They stole 2 games from the Celtics in Boston and have all the momentum. The Celtics were leading by 8 heading into the 4th quarter and led by 9 points with less than 7 minutes to go.

And yet the Heat pulled it out winning 111-105, thanks to 4 fewer turnovers and 10 more rebounds. Boston was favored in both games and they will need to win as a road favorite in Miami if they want to capture this series.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Celtics at Heat odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:38 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Celtics -160 (bet $160 to win $100) | Heat +135 (bet $100 to win $135)
Against the spread (ATS): Celtics -3.5 (-110) | Heat +3.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 213.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Celtics at Heat key injuries

Celtics

F Danilo Gallinari (knee) out

Heat

G Tyler Herro (hand) out
G Victor Oladipo (knee) out

For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.

Celtics at Heat picks and predictions

Prediction

Celtics 117, Heat 109

Moneyline

Remember last round when the Celtics traveled to Philadelphia trailing 3-2 in the series for Game 6 and pulled it out? And their following blow-out win in Game 7? Yes, the Celtics have the lowest winning percentage in the playoffs (53%) of the remaining 4 teams, but when it matters they come to play.

If they fall 0-3 they will not advance, and frankly even down 2-1 is a sizable hole but one step at a time.

BET CELTICS (-160).

Against the spread

The Celtics are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games after an ATS loss. Also, in these playoffs the Celtics lowest margin of victory is 8 points. I like the increased value in the spread.

LEAN CELTICS -3.5 (-110).

Over/Under

Trends point toward a relatively high-scoring game. Boston has gone Over in 10 of their last 12 road games. The Heat pair that perfectly with their recent home record where they are 10-2 in their last 12 in Miami.

LEAN OVER 213.5 (-110).

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Ethan Matthew on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1368]

Boston Celtics at Miami Heat odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Boston Celtics at Miami Heat odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Boston Celtics (35-13) wrap up a 3-game road trip at the Miami Heat (26-22) Tuesday. Tip-off from Miami-Dade Arena is set for 7:30 p.m. ET (TNT). Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook’s lines around the Celtics vs. Heat odds, and make our expert NBA picks and predictions.

The Celtics are coming off a blowout 113-98 loss at the Orlando Magic Monday. F Jayson Tatum and G Jaylen Brown each scored 26 points, but the teams’ 18 turnovers proved to be too much to overcome. Boston has split the first 2 games of its 3-game road trip.

Miami is coming off a 100-96 win vs. New Orleans Sunday in an uncharacteristically sloppy game. Both teams committed more than 20 turnovers and shot worse than 27% from beyond the arc. Miami will need to be more polished against one of the best teams in the NBA Tuesday.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Celtics at Heat odds

Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 8:38 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Celtics +110 (bet $100 to win $110) | Heat -130 (bet $130 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Celtics +2.5 (-115) | Heat -2.5 (-105)
Over/Under (O/U): 219.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

Catch the excitement and bet with Tipico

Double Down, Ohio! Deposit $200, Get $250. Bet now!

In Colorado and New Jersey, claim your 100% Deposit Match up to $250 now. Bet now! 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions.

Celtics at Heat key injuries

Celtics

Not yet submitted

Heat

None

For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.

Celtics at Heat picks and predictions

Prediction

Celtics 108, Heat 106

Moneyline

LEAN CELTICS (+115).

The Celtics and Heat are two solid teams with lots of experience playing against each other which is why the line is so close. The Celtics are one of the best road teams in the Association with a 17-8 road record, but this will be a tough matchup. The loss to the Magic snapped their 9-game win streak, but Boston should get back on track with a victory in a winnable game Tuesday.

Against the spread

LEAN CELTICS +2.5 (-115).

The Celtics are phenomenal when playing on back-to-back nights. Boston is 5-0-1 ATS in its last 6 games on 0 days’ rest. The Celtics have also been good ATS in recent meetings with the Heat, going 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings in Miami and 5-2 ATS in the last 7 meetings overall.

Over/Under

BET UNDER 219.5 (-112).

Recent trends suggest the Under will be the much safer bet Tuesday. The under is 4-1 in the Celtics’ last 5 games overall and is 5-1 in the Heat’s last 6 home games. The Under is 12-4 in the Heat’s last 16 games playing on 1 day of rest and is 5-2 the last 7 times these squads have met in Miami.

Want action on this NBA game or any other matchups? Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, SportsbookWire’s official sportsbook partner in OH, CO and NJ. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow @payton_shanks on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1368]

Boston Celtics at Miami Heat odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Boston Celtics at Miami Heat odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Miami Heat (0-1) welcome the Boston Celtics (1-0) to FTX Arena Friday. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET (ESPN). Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook’s lines around the Celtics vs. Heat odds, and our expert NBA picks and predictions.

The Celtics come into this battle after opening the entire NBA season up Tuesday with a 126-117 home win over the Philadelphia 76ers as 3-point favorites. Boston was after the 1st quarter but rallied to take the lead by winning the 2nd and 3rd quarters.

The Celtics were able to use a combined 70 points from F Jayson Tatum and G Jaylen Brown to pull ahead. Newcomer G Malcolm Brogdon chipped in well with 16 points in his Celtics debut.

The Heat lost their opener Wednesday 116-108 as 7.5-point favorites to the visiting Chicago Bulls who were without G Zach LaVine.

Miami had 3 players top 20 points as F Jimmy Butler led the way with 24 points and 8 rebounds. The Heat will ask more of C Bam Adebayo, who scored just 12 points and had 9 rebounds in their opener.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Celtics at Heat odds

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 2:08 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Celtics -135 (bet $135 to win $100) | Heat +110 (bet $100 to win $110)
Against the spread (ATS): Celtics -2.5 (-110) | Heat +2.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 219.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

Claim your risk-free bet up to $350. Catch the excitement and start betting with Tipico Sportsbook! New customer offer in CO and NJ. 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. Bet now!

Celtics at Heat key injuries

Celtics

C Robert Williams III (knee) out

Heat

G Victor Oladipo (knee) out

For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.

Celtics at Heat picks and predictions

Prediction

Heat 108, Celtics 106

Moneyline

SPRINKLE HEAT (+110).

The Heat being home underdogs is criminal, and although the Celtics did beat the 76ers, it seems unlikely they will get a similar level of production from Brown and Tatum.

Also, Butler abused the Celtics in a 7-game playoff series last season. The Heat are 0-1 and the Celtics are 1-0, and considering how each played, this is a perfect buy-low opportunity for Miami.

Against the spread

BET HEAT +2.5 (-110).

The Heat had the 4th-best defensive rating and 6th-best net rating last season. With a roster that mimics that of last season, the offensive ceiling is capped for Miami, but it should still thrive defensively.

The Heat played well Wednesday despite losing. Miami had 19 turnovers, but that isn’t how the Boston defense thrives, ranking 13th in turnovers forced last season.

The Heat did shoot 46.3% from the field. If the Celtics don’t create those turnovers and their stars regress as expected, the Heat should be able to cover as home ‘dogs.

Over/Under

LEAN UNDER 219.5 (-112).

Both teams ranked in the top 4 in defensive rating last season. There’s not much reason to believe Tatum or Brown will top 35 points against Butler and Adebayo.

That was far above their average, and regression for Boston is expected. Similarly, the Heat shot well and may not have that same success as Boston led the league in opponents’ field goal percentage last season.

Expect a low-scoring primetime game.

Want action on this NBA game or any other matchups? Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, SportsbookWire’s official sportsbook partner in CO and NJ. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow @nathanbeighle_ on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1368]

Boston Celtics at Miami Heat Game 7 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Boston Celtics at Miami Heat Game 7 odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The No. 2 seed Boston Celtics meet the No. 1 seed Miami Heat Sunday in the decisive Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals at FTX Arena. Tip-off is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. ET (ESPN). Below, we look at the Celtics vs. Heat odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Heat kept their season alive by upsetting the Celtics 111-103 in Boston in Game 6 as 9-point underdogs. Miami outscored Boston in three of the four quarters and outperformed the Celtics in three of the “four factors.”

Miami SF Jimmy Butler had a game for the ages. He scored 47 points on 55.2% shooting (16-for-29) and a perfect 11-for-11 from the line with 9 rebounds and 8 assists.

Each team covered the spread 3 times in this series, but the Celtics have a plus-5.9 net rating. The Over//Under (O/U) is 4-2.

Celtics at Heat odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:50 p.m. ET.

Money line: Celtics -160 (bet $160 to win $100) | Heat +130 (bet $100 to win $130)
Against the spread (ATS): Celtics -3.5 (-108) | Heat +3.5 (-112)
Over/Under (O/U): 196.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

Celtics at Heat key injuries

Celtics

PG Marcus Smart (ankle) questionable
C Robert Williams III (knee) questionable

Heat

PG Tyler Herro (groin) questionable
PG Kyle Lowry (hamstring) questionable
SG Max Strus (hamstring) questionable
PF P.J. Tucker (knee) questionable
PG Gabe Vincent (hamstring) questionable

[tipico]

Celtics at Heat picks and predictions

Prediction

Heat 101, Celtics 96

Money line

LEAN HEAT (+130) . Their spread is the sharper play even though the first 6 games of this series have been decided by at least 6 points.

Miami has the edge for Game 7 because it has the best player in the series (Butler), more depth, big-game experience and continuity and, obviously, home-court advantage.

More importantly, the Heat are winning the possession battle for this series, outperforming the Celtics in both rebounding and turnover rates.

The other two “four factors” — effective-field goal shooting and free-throw attempt rate — can be highly variant. Those areas tend to favor the home side because role players shoot better at home and home teams typically get the benefit of the whistle.

Also, Boston struggled to win close games during the regular season, partially due to its lack of a true point guard. The Celtics were 13-22 in the “clutch” with a minus-9.5 net rating. “Clutch” is defined by games within a 5-point margin inside of 5 minutes to play.

Boston’s absence of a floor general leads to the Celtics relying on contested long 2-pointers or 3-pointers. Boston is 2nd in 3-point attempt rate for the playoffs and Miami was 2nd in defensive 3-point shooting percentage this season. The Celtics could waste possessions with poor shot selection.

The bottom line is that the HEAT (+130) have more value in Game 7 because they are home, will have more possessions and get easier looks.

I’ll take whatever points I can get with Miami.

PLAY: Free, daily sports pick’em contests. Play now!

Against the spread

BET HEAT +3.5 (-112) instead of or heavier than their ML based on the previous analysis.

Miami’s spread has a contrarian angle since most of the market is betting the Celtics -3.5 (-108), according to VegasInsider.com and Pregame.com.

I’d rather be on the same side as the oddsmakers in these high-stakes games since the markets are tight and these teams are evenly matched. It’s typically profitable being on the same side as the House.

HEAT +3.5 (-112) is my favorite wager in Game 7.

Something to consider: If you take Miami’s spread pregame and the Heat get up double digits early, then you can take a “middle” or “hedge” position by betting the Celtics in-game.

Over/Under

PASS.

This is a sharp total and Game 7’s typically play Under the total. But both teams chuck 3-pointers, the Over has cashed in 4 of 6 games this series and the Over is 11-5 in the last 16 Celtics-Heat meetings.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and soon IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Geoff Clark on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

Boston Celtics at Miami Heat odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Thursday’s Boston Celtics at Miami Heat odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Miami Heat (6-1) host the Boston Celtics (3-5) Thursday at the FTX Arena with tip-off scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Celtics vs. Heat odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions, and bets.

Boston snapped a three-game losing skid with a 92-79 victory over the Orlando Magic Wednesday as a 7-point road favorite. The Celtics rank 24th in both net rating and effective field goal shooting (eFG%), and are 3-5 against the spread (ATS) and 4-4 Over/Under (O/U).

Miami has the highest net rating in the Association and is riding a five-game win streak. Three of the Heat’s last four wins have come on the road against playoff teams from last season. Miami is 6-1 ATS and 3-4 O/U.

The Heat won and covered in two of their three regular-season meetings with the Celtics last year. Also, Miami upset Boston in the 2019-20 Eastern Conference Finals in the Orlando bubble.

Celtics at Heat odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 3:33 p.m. ET.

Money line: Celtics +230 (bet $100 to win $230) | Heat -300 (bet $300 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Celtics +6.5 (-107) | Heat -6.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 214.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

PLAY: Free, daily sports pick’em contests. Play now!

Celtics at Heat key injuries

Celtics

Nothing affecting gambling odds.

Heat

SG Max Strus (knee) out

Celtics at Heat odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Heat 114, Celtics 107

Money line

PASS because Miami is the right side in this game but the Heat (-300) are unplayable outright and I don’t parlay NBA regular-season favorites.

Against the spread

“LEAN” to the HEAT -6.5 (-115) because a vast majority of the market is betting Miami and I hate following a crowd of people in sports betting.

The Heat should cash tickets for backers because guard Kyle Lowry has been a perfect offseason addition thus far and guard Tyler Herro is playing even better than he did in the Orlando bubble two seasons ago.

Herro could make a case for the Sixth Man of the Year and the Most Improved Player awards through the first couple weeks of the season. He’s averaging 22.4 points per game (PPG) off the bench on 55.1% eFG%.

Miami’s bench averages the most PPG in the league (47.0) with the best +/-. On the other hand, Boston lacks depth, averaging just the fifth-fewest bench PPG (28.0) and the second-worst +/- in the NBA.

There’s a toughness and poise that Lowry brings to the table for Miami. He keeps the offense organized and his defensive prowess fits into Heat culture.

Over/Under

Slight “LEAN” to the OVER 214.5 (-112) for a tiny wager if at all because there’s been a smidge of “reverse line movement” toward the Under.

Nearly 60% of the action is on the Over, but the total has been lowered from the 215-point opener according to pregame.com

However, Miami’s offense lit up Boston in their final two meetings last season and the Celtics have played bad 3-point defense to start the year.

The Heat have the fourth-highest offensive FT/FGA rate, the Celtics have the worst defensive FT/FGA rate and Miami will get easy putbacks against a Boston team that’s 20th in defensive rebounding rate.

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Geoff Clark on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

Boston Celtics at Miami Heat odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Wednesday’s Boston Celtics at Miami Heat NBA betting odds and lines, with basketball picks, tips and predictions.

The Boston Celtics (5-3) travel to meet the Miami Heat (3-3) Wednesday for a 7:30 p.m. ET tip at American Airlines Arena.

Below, we analyze the Celtics-Heat NBA betting odds and lines, with picks and predictions.

Celtics at Heat: Betting odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:20 a.m. ET.

Money line: Celtics +115 (bet $100 to win $115) | Heat -140 (bet $140 to win $100)
Against the spread/ATS: Celtics +2.5 (-110) | Heat -2.5 (-110)
Over/Under: 217.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

Celtics at Heat: Key Injuries

Celtics

G Jeff Green (illness) out
G Romeo Langford (wrist) out
G Marcus Smart (thumb) questionable
G Jeff Teague (ankle) questionable
G Kemba Walker (knee) out

Heat

F Moe Harkless (forearm) questionable
G Gabe Vincent (knee) probable

Special NBA Betting Promotion!

Place a $1 bet on either team’s money line, WIN an additional $100 (in free bets) if either team hits a 3-pointer during the game today. Promotion available in CO, IN, NJ, TN and WV. IA and PA residents, don’t miss BetMGM‘s risk-free, first-bet offer! MI residents, BetMGM is coming to your state soon — register early for special promotion.

Place your legal, online sports bets at BetMGM! Terms and conditions apply. Bet now!

Celtics at Heat: Odds, betting lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Heat 113, Celtics 108

Money line (ML)

The HEAT (-140) are a solid play against a Celtics (+115) team that has a hole in the backcourt with Smart and Teague both question marks. If Tremont Waters gets another start, that’s great news for Miami. Waters struggled with just five points and five assists in his 24 minutes, hitting 1-for-8 from the field.

Against the spread (ATS)

Even if the Smart and/or Teague is able to play, the HEAT -2.5 (-110) is the play. Miami beat Oklahoma City 118-90, and they have won a pair of games at home after their wake-up call blowout at home against Milwaukee Dec. 29. Miami has won five of the past seven meetings against Boston, which is just 2-6 ATS in its past eight following a straight-up win.

Over/Under (O/U)

The lean is to the OVER 217.5 (-115), which has connected in each of the past four meetings in this series, while going 3-0-1 in the previous four battles in Miami. The Under is 6-1 in the past seven at home for the Heat, but the Over has cashed in each of their past four against teams with a winning straight-up record. The Over has hit in six of the past eight road games for the C’s, too.

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Joe Williams on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Also see:

Every team’s best chance for a major award in 2020-21
Rumors: Celtics | Heat

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting sportland-trail-blazers/ervices. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1368]