Toronto Raptors (18-39) vs Boston Celtics (41-16)
Game Info: Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at 7:00 pm (Scotiabank Arena)
Betting Odds: Toronto Raptors +11 -- Over/Under: 227 Click Here for the Latest Odds
Where to Watch: NBC Sports BO
The Boston Celtics will face the Toronto Raptors on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto. The Celtics, boasting a 41-16 record, are currently second in the Eastern Conference and are riding a five-game winning streak. In their most recent outing, they secured a 118-105 victory over the New York Knicks, with Jayson Tatum contributing 25 points, 10 rebounds, and nine assists, while Jaylen Brown added 24 points and eight rebounds.
Conversely, the Raptors have struggled this season, holding an 18-39 record and sitting 13th in the Eastern Conference. They did, however, snap a two-game losing streak with a 127-109 win against the Phoenix Suns, highlighted by Chris Boucher's impressive performance off the bench.
This season, the Celtics and Raptors have met three times, with Boston winning two of those encounters. The most recent matchup resulted in a dominant 125-71 victory for the Celtics, marking their 11th consecutive win over Toronto.
Jayson Tatum Over 7.5 Rebounds
Jayson Tatum has played 54 games for the Boston Celtics in the 2024-25 NBA season, averaging 8.8 rebounds per game. This places him 20th in the league for rebounds per game. Tatum's rebounding performance has been a significant factor in the Celtics' success this season, as they currently hold a 40-16 record. In addition to his rebounding, Tatum contributes an average of 26.8 points and 5.7 assists per game, showcasing his all-around impact on the court.
Tatum has secured double-digit rebounds in his last three games and in that span, we saw him have a 14-rebound game against the San Antonio Spurs. He has a favorable matchup on the boards in this game going against the Toronto Raptors who are giving up 53.3 rebounds per game to opposing teams which is well above the league average.
RJ Barrett Over 20.5 Points
RJ Barrett has played 44 games for the Toronto Raptors in the 2024-25 NBA season, averaging 21.9 points per game. This scoring average ranks him 29th in the league. Barrett's field goal percentage stands at 47.6%, with a three-point shooting percentage of 36.2%. Barrett's performance has been instrumental in the Raptors' offensive strategy this season. His consistent scoring and improved shooting efficiency have contributed significantly to the team's success.
Since returning back from injury we've seen RJ Barrett score 20 or more points in his last three games. When he's in the lineup he's consistently been this Toronto Raptors team's leading scorer. I expect the Raptors to be down most of this game with the way the Boston Celtics have been playing which will force RJ Barrett to be aggressive on the offensive end. If the Raptors want any chance in this game RJ Barrett will need to be the focal point of this offense.
Derrick White Over 14.5 Points
Derrick White has played 53 games for the Boston Celtics in the 2024-25 NBA season, averaging 16.1 points per game. He has achieved a field goal percentage of 44.2% and a three-point shooting percentage of 37.8%. White's consistent scoring has been vital to the Celtics' performance this season. His ability to contribute offensively, combined with his defensive skills, underscores his importance to the team's success.
Derek White has scored 14 or more points in eight of his last 10 games and has been a consistent role player for the Celtics team this season. Guys like Jalen Brown and Jayson Tatum garner a lot of attention from defenses which open things up for guys like Derek White on the perimeter. We've seen the Toronto Raptors play in a lot of high-scoring games this season and in what should be another high-scoring one I expect Derek white to have another solid game scoring the ball.
Brad’s Pick See Above
AUTHOR: Brad Francis
