The Boston Celtics (45-23) will clash with the Toronto Raptors (49-18) in one of the most important games yet in the NBA bubble in Orlando, Fla. Tip-off is set for 9 p.m. ET as the Raptors try to clinch the Eastern Conference’s No. 2 seed. We analyze the Celtics-Raptors betting odds and lines, with NBA picks and best bets.
Celtics vs. Raptors: Key injuries
Celtics
- PG Kemba Walker (knee) probable
- PG Tremont Waters (concussion) questionable
Raptors
- SF Patrick McCaw (knee) out
- SF Oshae Brissett (knee) questionable
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Celtics vs. Raptors: Odds, lines, picks and betting tips
NBA odds courtesy of BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports for a full list. Odds last updated Friday at 8:15 a.m. ET.
Prediction
Raptors 106, Celtics 104
Moneyline (ML)
The RAPTORS (-143) should remain undefeated and move to 4-0 in bubble play. They’ve won by 15, four and 10 points thus far. The Celtics (+115) won their opening game 128-124 and lost the second 122-106 before beating down on the inferior Brooklyn Nets 149-115.
Boston won the regular-season series 2-1, but it was Toronto winning what turned out to be the final meeting by a 113-97 score without star PF Pascal Siakam. The Raps have been playing the better brand of basketball since the restart, controlling the pace of play and playing stifling defense. They’ll also be motivated to wrap up the Eastern Conference’s second seed.
Bet the RAPTORS (-143) to win Friday.
Line/Against the Spread (ATS)
The Raptors -3 (-110) will be fully comfortable winning a tight, lower-scoring game Friday. Take the CELTICS +3 (-110) with the potential for a backdoor cover making this one seem closer than it’ll be for most of the 48 minutes.
It’s also a fine hedge against picking the Raptors on the moneyline as it still offers a more profitable return.
Over/Under (O/U)
The UNDER 218.5 (-110) is the safest play in this pivotal Eastern Conference matchup. The Raps haven’t played to a total above 210 since the restart and the stakes of this game will put an even stronger emphasis on defensive play.
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