The Celtics vs. Nuggets matchup will be the second of Tuesday night’s TNT double header in the NBA. With the Celtics laying five points and the total sitting at 235.5, what’s the best bet in tonight’s matchup from Ball Arena in Denver, CO?
Game Matchup & Betting Odds
Boston Celtics (-5.5) at Denver Nuggets (+5.5); o/u 235.5
10:00 p.m. ET, Tuesday, January 7, 2025
Ball Arena, Denver, CO
TV: TNT
Celtics vs. Nuggets Public Betting: Bettors Leaning Towards Boston
Our NBA Public Betting Information page indicates that 52% of public bettors are currently backing the Celtics when it comes to the spread. This information is subject to change throughout the day, however, so be sure to check the link so you’re receiving the most up-to-date public betting data.
Tatum leads Boston with 26 points in loss to OKC
Jayson Tatum led Boston on Sunday with 26 points (7-of-17 FGs, 10-of-12 FTs), 10 rebounds, one assist, two steals and two 3-pointers in a 105-92 loss to Oklahoma City. Following an eight-game double-double streak, Tatum went their last four games without one before getting back on track in this game. It wasn’t enough for them to secure a win over the top team in the West, but Tatum was still able to make an impact, especially at the free throw line. They have a three-game week coming up, starting in Denver on Tuesday. That will limit the fantasy impact that Tatum is able to make, but he should continue to be effective when he suits up.
Jokic pours in 46 vs. Spurs
Nikola Jokic had 46 points (19-of-35 FGs), nine rebounds, 10 assists, two steals, two blocks and three 3-pointers in the Nuggets’ 122-111 overtime victory over the Spurs on Saturday. Jokic scored 41 points in Friday’s loss to the Spurs so he increased his total to 46 points and the Nuggets pulled out the win in overtime in the rematch Saturday. Jokic was one rebound shy of a triple-double and needed 35 shots to get his 46 points, though it’s understandable as Victor Wembanyama is a difficult defensive matchup. Jokic continues his reign as the top player in fantasy this year.
Celtics vs. Nuggets NBA Prediction:
Take Denver. The Nuggets have beaten the Celtics three straight times, covering in all three of those matchups as well. While Boston has been more inconsistent at the window of late (4-5-1 against the spread in its last 10 games), the Nuggets covered in four of their last five games. The lone exception was a 113-110 loss to the Spurs as a 6-point home favorite. Denver rebounded in San Antonio, beating the Spurs 122-111 as a 3-point favorite.
Celtics vs. Nuggets Betting Prediction: Denver Nuggets +5.5