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Boston Celtics vs. Houston Rockets: Preview, Predictions and Picks for January 3, 2025

Updated on:
Jan 3, 2025 9:12 PM
The Boston Celtics, currently sitting second in the Eastern Conference, travel to the Toyota Center to face the Houston Rockets, who are third in the Western Conference, on Friday, January 3, 2025, at 8:00 PM. The Celtics, led by their impressive 12-3 road record, aim to take down the Rockets, who have been strong at home with a 12-5 record. This highly anticipated non-conference matchup is set to be an intense battle between two of the NBA's top teams.
Boston Celtics vs Houston Rockets

Current Odds

BOS
HOU
Over
191.5
-115
Under
192.5
+100
BOS
-20.5
-130
HOU
+24.5
-110
BOS
ML
-10000
HOU
ML
+13092

Houston Rockets recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
1/1/25 vs Dallas Mavericks W 110-99
12/29/24 vs Miami Heat L 104-100
12/27/24 vs Minnesota Timberwolves L 113-112
12/26/24 @ New Orleans Pelicans W 128-111
12/23/24 @ Charlotte Hornets W 114-101

Boston Celtics recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
12/31/24 vs Toronto Raptors W 125-71
12/29/24 vs Indiana Pacers L 123-114
12/27/24 vs Indiana Pacers W 142-105
12/25/24 vs Philadelphia 76ers L 118-114
12/23/24 @ Orlando Magic L 108-104

Houston Rockets injuries

  • Jock Landale (C): Day-To-Day
  • Tari Eason (F): Out
  • Amen Thompson (F): Suspension

Boston Celtics injuries

  • Jaylen Brown (SG): Out
  • Kristaps Porzingis (C): Out

Celtics vs Rockets game info

Type Info
Venue Toyota Center (Houston)
Location Houston, TX
Tip-off Fri 8:00 PM

Celtics vs Rockets predictions

Get ready, Celtics fans! This matchup against the Houston Rockets will really test the roaring firepower of Jayson Tatum. Imagine him dropping around 22 points while grabbing nearly 10 boards—definitely the sort of effort Boston will lean on. Jaylen Brown, with his knack for scoring, should sneak in just under 20 points and give the Rockets some defensive headaches. Meanwhile, Kristaps Porzingis, often playing like a tower on defense, could be in for a solid night with blocks and rebounds aplenty. Derrick White is another name to look out for, as his ability to contribute across the board with scoring and defensive plays can really make an impact.

Now shifting our focus to the Houston Rockets, Jalen Green has been consistently lighting up the scoreboard, and he'll likely continue his streak, possibly touching the 20-point mark. The team's secret weapon, Alperen Sengun, is expected to go all out with an impressive double-double performance. You just can’t overlook Fred VanVleet either, as his playmaking skills coupled with a knack for dropping clutch buckets are sure to keep the momentum swinging. Dillon Brooks will certainly add to the hustle, probably racking up points and rebounds while also flexing his defensive muscles.

So, what about the outcome of this thrilling matchup? Both teams are poised with exceptional talent, making for an electrifying showdown. Yet, considering Boston’s overall consistency and solid road performance this season, they're looking like a solid pick to edge out the Rockets. Don't count Houston out, though! Playing on their home turf, they'll definitely come out swinging. However, with the way Boston's stars have been shining—it feels like this might be a night for the Celtics. What do you think? Will Boston prevail, or could the Rockets surprise everyone? Tune in, and let’s see the drama unfold on the hardwood.

Houston Rockets

Boston Celtics

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