Philadelphia 76ers (20-34) vs Boston Celtics (39-16)
Game Info: Thursday, February 20, 2025 at 7:00 pm (Wells Fargo Center)
Betting Odds: Philadelphia 76ers +7 -- Over/Under: 224.5 Click Here for the Latest Odds
Where to Watch: TNT
The Boston Celtics (39-16) are set to face the Philadelphia 76ers (20-34) on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 7:00 PM EST at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia. The Celtics, currently second in the Eastern Conference, are on a three-game winning streak, while the 76ers, positioned 11th in the East, have faced challenges throughout the season.
Boston is coming off a victory over the San Antonio Spurs, the Celtics showcased their offensive depth. Kristaps Porzingis contributed 29 points, while Derrick White added 19 points, nine assists, and seven rebounds. Jaylen Brown, who was sidelined during that game, is expected to return for this matchup, bolstering the Celtics' lineup.
The 76ers have been significantly impacted by injuries, most notably the absence of Joel Embiid due to a left meniscus injury. Additionally, Quentin Grimes has been ruled out for the remainder of the season. These setbacks have contributed to the team's struggles, as reflected in their current record.
Jayson Tatum Over 5.5 Assists
Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum has played 52 games in the 2024-25 NBA season, averaging 5.6 assists per game. This marks an improvement from the previous season, where he averaged 4.9 assists per game over 74 games. Tatum's playmaking abilities have been instrumental in the Celtics' offensive strategies, facilitating scoring opportunities for his teammates. His increased assist numbers reflect his development as a versatile player, contributing not only in scoring but also in creating plays.
Jayson Tatum is coming off a game where he secured seven assists against the San Antonio Spurs and in his last 10 games, we've seen him Eclipse double-digit assist twice. He has a favorable matchup going against the Sixers who are giving up 27.4 assists per game to opposing teams which is well above the league average. Jayson Tatum should have a great night facilitating the ball in this game.
Tyrese Maxey Over 26.5 Points
Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey has played 46 games in the 2024-25 NBA season, averaging 27.6 points per game, which ranks him 4th in the league. Maxey's scoring efficiency includes a field goal percentage of 44.7% and a three-point shooting percentage of 34.5%. He has also maintained a free-throw percentage of 87.2%.
Tyrese Maxey only scored five points in his last game before the All-Star break against the Toronto Raptors but before that, he had a massive month of January and a great start to the month of February. Even with Joel Embid back in the lineup Tyrese Maxey has become this team's leading scorer. If the Sixers want to have any success against the Celtics Maxey will have to have a big night scoring the ball.
Paul George Under 14.5 Points
Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George has played 35 games in the 2024-25 NBA season, averaging 16.1 points per game. George's shooting efficiency this season includes a field goal percentage of 42.6% and a three-point shooting percentage of 36.3%. In addition to his scoring, he contributes 5.3 rebounds and 4.4 assists per game.
We’ve seen a decline from Paul George this season, where he averaged 22.6 points over 74 games with the Los Angeles Clippers last season. It's safe to say that Paul George just isn't the same player that he used to be. He has scored under 15 points in his last five games and in his last game he only put up two points against the Brooklyn Nets. The Boston Celtics play great perimeter defense and allow very few points and three-pointers per game to opposing teams. This isn't the game Paul George will magically become his old self.
Brad’s Pick See Above
AUTHOR: Brad Francis
