Toronto Raptors vs Boston Celtics Prediction: Moneyline, Props & SGP (Dec 20)
Calendar icon Updated 19 Dec 18:37

Toronto Raptors vs Boston Celtics Prediction: Moneyline, Props & SGP (Dec 20)

Alexander Yaremenko Alexander Yaremenko
Moneyline PickToronto Raptors
Player PropBrandon Ingram Over 22.5 Points
Same Game Parlay (Bet Builder)Raptors +3.5 Spread + Brandon Ingram 22+ Points + Under 226.5 Total Points
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Toronto Raptors vs Boston Celtics Main Match Info

Toronto Raptors vs Boston Celtics Moneyline Prediction

Stylistically, this is a fascinating matchup. The Celtics love to bomb from deep, but the Raptors’ defensive scheme emphasises high-pressure perimeter defending and using their length to disrupt passing lanes. 

Without Jason Tatum to draw double-teams, Toronto can focus their “centre” of attention on Jaylen Brown, forcing Boston’s secondary players to beat them.

The “closer” factor is where this gets interesting. Normally, the Celtics have the edge, but Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram have been incredible in clutch moments this season.

In a game that will likely be decided in the final two minutes, we’re leaning toward the home-court advantage. Scotiabank Arena remains one of the loudest venues in the league, and the Raptors’ fan base usually provides that extra energy boost that helps a team close out a win.

Toronto Raptors vs Boston Celtics Player Prop

Over the last two outings – big road wins against Miami and Milwaukee – Brandon Ingram has put up 28 and 29 points, respectively.

Boston’s defence, while disciplined, currently lacks the elite wing stopper required to neutralise a 6’8″ shot-maker like Ingram. 

Without Jayson Tatum’s length to bother him on the perimeter, Ingram should find his favourite spots in the mid-range with ease. 

He shot 55% in the last meeting against Boston, scoring 30 points and proving that the Celtics’ current defensive rotations struggle to handle his high release point.

The game script is ideally set up for an Ingram Over. With Jakob Poeltl managing a back injury, the Raptors have pivoted to a more perimeter-oriented attack, which means more isolation touches for Ingram. 

We expect him to hit 23 points by the middle of the third quarter, especially if he continues his recent trend of hot shooting from beyond the arc.

Toronto Raptors vs Boston Celtics Same Game Parlay

Raptors +3.5 Spread: Even if the Raptors don’t pull off the outright upset, they rarely lose by more than a basket at home. This handicap provides a great safety net for a game we expect to be a one-possession affair.

Brandon Ingram 22+ Points: If Toronto are going to cover the spread or win outright, it’ll be because Ingram provides the necessary scoring punch to match Boston’s high-volume shooting.

Under 226.5 Total Points: Both teams are missing secondary scoring options (Tatum for Boston, Barrett for Toronto). In high-stakes divisional games, the pace usually slows down in the second half. We expect a defensive grind rather than a track meet.

Toronto Raptors vs Boston Celtics Team News

Toronto Raptors Team News

RJ Barrett remains out with a right knee sprain, though he’s reportedly started return-to-play activities. Jakob Poeltl missed Thursday’s clash against Milwaukee due to back soreness and remains a game-time decision for Saturday. His presence in the paint is vital for Toronto’s rebounding against a Boston frontcourt.

Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram have been the standout duo for the Raptors lately. Barnes is playing at an All-Star level, averaging 20.0 points and nearly eight rebounds. 

The team have won two straight on the road and return home with good momentum. Their main strength is their transition offence, which has looked sharp even with the missing pieces.

Boston Celtics Team News

The headline in Boston continues to be the absence of Jayson Tatum (Achilles surgery). The Celtics are leaning heavily on Jaylen Brown and Derrick White. White has been phenomenal as a secondary creator, but the bench depth is an issue as the starters continue to log massive minutes.

Neemias Queta has been impressive as the starting centre, providing exceptional rim protection and offensive rebounding. 

However, the Celtics have shown vulnerability in late-game execution without their primary closer in Tatum. They’ll need a great defensive effort from their backcourt to slow down Ingram’s mid-range shooting.

Toronto Raptors vs Boston Celtics: Where to Watch (Canada) 

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