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Boston Celtics vs. New Orleans Pelicans: Preview, Predictions and Picks for January 31, 2025

Updated on:
Jan 31, 2025 8:45 PM
The struggling New Orleans Pelicans look to break their four-game losing streak as they host the second-place Boston Celtics at the Smoothie King Center on Friday, January 31, 2025, at 8:00 PM. The Celtics, with a strong 33-15 record, will aim to capitalize on the Pelicans' weaknesses, particularly at home where they have a 8-17 record. Can the Pelicans find a way to contain the Celtics' high-powered offense and secure a much-needed win?
Boston Celtics vs New Orleans Pelicans

Current Odds

BOS
NO
Over
231.5
-110
Under
233.5
-115
BOS
-8.5
-115
NO
+8.5
-102
BOS
ML
-851
NO
ML
+700

New Orleans Pelicans recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
1/29/25 vs Dallas Mavericks L 137-136
1/27/25 @ Toronto Raptors L 113-104
1/25/25 @ Charlotte Hornets L 123-92
1/24/25 @ Memphis Grizzlies L 139-126
1/20/25 vs Utah Jazz W 123-119 OT

Boston Celtics recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
1/29/25 vs Chicago Bulls W 122-100
1/27/25 vs Houston Rockets L 114-112
1/25/25 @ Dallas Mavericks W 122-107
1/23/25 @ Los Angeles Lakers L 117-96
1/22/25 @ LA Clippers W 117-113 OT

New Orleans Pelicans injuries

  • Jordan Hawkins (G): Day-To-Day
  • Daniel Theis (C): Day-To-Day
  • Dejounte Murray (SG): Day-To-Day
  • Brandon Ingram (SF): Out
  • Herbert Jones (SF): Out

Boston Celtics injuries

  • Al Horford (C): Day-To-Day
  • Sam Hauser (SF): Day-To-Day

Celtics vs Pelicans game info

Type Info
Venue Smoothie King Center
Location New Orleans, LA
Tip-off Fri 8:00 PM

Celtics vs Pelicans predictions

For the Boston Celtics, the upcoming clash against the New Orleans Pelicans holds promise for some standout performances. Keep an eye on Jayson Tatum, expected to deliver a high-scoring night with his usual impressive blend of scoring and playmaking. With projections suggesting he might pick up around 24.6 points, his all-around contributions, including rebounds and assists, will play a pivotal role in Boston's quest to widen their lead in the series. Meanwhile, Jaylen Brown provides a reliable scoring punch as well, with a projection of 21.8 points, and don't overlook Kristaps Porzingis, whose presence in the paint could be vital for the Celtics. It's really the depth that gives Boston a significant edge, boasting players like Payton Pritchard and Derrick White, ready to step up when needed.

Switching focus to the New Orleans Pelicans, they might be leaning heavily on CJ McCollum and Trey Murphy to light up the scoreboard. Murphy, in particular, looks poised to make waves with his potential to notch over 20 points, acting as a spark for the Pelicans' offense. CJ McCollum will likely be orchestrating plays and sneaking in his share of points and assists, aiming to counter the Celtics' defensive schemes. If Dejounte Murray can shake off the day-to-day status from his finger sprain and make his presence felt, he could inject much-needed dynamism into the Pelicans' game plan. Additionally, under the boards, Yves Missi and Zion Williamson may be pivotal in providing sturdy support and going toe-to-toe with Boston's strong frontcourt.

With all the dynamics at play, the Celtics seem ready to extend their success over the Pelicans. Their consistency, bolstered by star power and depth, makes them the likely favorites to take another win on the road. While the Pelicans will be fighting to snap out of a four-game slump, the sheer momentum and strategic prowess of Boston can't be underestimated in this matchup. However, basketball is fickle, and New Orleans will surely aim to leverage their home-court advantage at the Smoothie King Center. Yet, in this dance of hoops skill, the odds bend towards a Celtic triumph. What do you think?

New Orleans Pelicans

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