Up arrow
NBA
Games

Boston Celtics vs. Oklahoma City Thunder: Preview, Predictions and Picks for January 5, 2025

Updated on:
Jan 5, 2025 4:38 PM
The Oklahoma City Thunder, riding a strong 16-2 home record, look to extend their winning streak at the Paycom Center when they host the Boston Celtics on Sunday, January 5, at 3:30 PM. The Thunder, currently first in the Western Conference, face off against the Celtics, who sit second in the Eastern Conference, in a highly anticipated matchup. Oklahoma City aims to secure its sixth consecutive home win against a formidable Boston team that's 13-3 on the road this season.
Boston Celtics vs Oklahoma City Thunder

Current Odds

BOS
OKC
Over
204.5
+100
Under
204.5
-113
BOS
+7.5
+108
OKC
-8.0
-107
BOS
ML
+1050
OKC
ML
-1429

Oklahoma City Thunder recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
1/3/25 vs New York Knicks W 117-107
1/2/25 vs LA Clippers W 116-98
12/31/24 vs Minnesota Timberwolves W 113-105
12/29/24 vs Memphis Grizzlies W 130-106
12/28/24 @ Charlotte Hornets W 106-94

Boston Celtics recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
1/3/25 @ Houston Rockets W 109-86
1/2/25 @ Minnesota Timberwolves W 118-115
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

Oklahoma City Thunder injuries

  • Ajay Mitchell (G): Out
  • Alex Caruso (SG): Out
  • Alex Ducas (G): Out
  • Adam Flagler (F): Out
  • Chet Holmgren (PF): Out

Boston Celtics injuries

  • Jaylen Brown (SG): Day-To-Day

Celtics vs Thunder game info

Type Info
Venue Paycom Center
Location Oklahoma City, OK
Tip-off Sun 3:30 PM
TV NBA TV

Celtics vs Thunder predictions

As the Boston Celtics gear up to take on the Oklahoma City Thunder, all eyes are on Jayson Tatum to deliver another standout performance. He's a triple threat, leading the team not just in points, but assists and rebounds as well. It's easy to imagine Tatum close to another double-double, notching around 22.8 points, 10 or more rebounds, and keeping those assists numbers high. Meanwhile, Jaylen Brown is expected to provide significant support, likely putting up points in the high teens and contributing solidly on the boards. Keeping Kristaps Porzingis' dynamic play into account, he too could be a game-changer, especially if he finds his rhythm beyond the arc and adds some valuable rebounds into the mix. You can't forget the steady hands of Derrick White, who’ll be crucial on both ends with his ability to score and facilitate effectively.

Now over to the homeland at the Paycom Center, the Oklahoma City Thunder fans are buzzing. They’re banking on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to once again headline the attack. Averaging a scorching 30-plus points per game, Shai is like a force of nature when he gets going. His play-making skills are equally impressive, which will keep Boston’s defense guessing. Alongside him, Jalen Williams is showing he’s got the mettle to make a big impact, possibly pushing over the 20-point mark and creating turnovers with his defensive prowess. The rebounding might of Isaiah Hartenstein should not go overlooked; he's expected to command the boards, providing second-chance opportunities that could be pivotal. The Thunder's depth is intriguing, with players who can seamlessly step in and maintain the pace, something they’ll need to outlast a Celtics team that's equally deep.

Looking at the match-up, this clash between two of the NBA heavyweights promises to be electrifying. Oklahoma City is gunning for their sixth straight win at home, and with the Thunder's lethal home-court record, it's tough to bet against them pulling through. Yet, Boston is no stranger to high-stakes games on the road, boasting a solid away record themselves. It wouldn't be surprising if this game went down to the wire, but, calling it as I see it, the Thunder's momentum and the roars of Paycom Center might give them the slightest edge over the Celtics. Excited to see how it all unfolds? You're not alone.

Oklahoma City Thunder

Boston Celtics

More Games