Celtics vs Pelicans Prediction and NBA Tips – 13 January 2025

The Boston Celtics are set to host the New Orleans Pelicans on January 13, 2025, at TD Garden in Boston. This matchup features two teams on opposite ends of the NBA spectrum this season. The Celtics boast a 27-11 record, placing them second in the Eastern Conference, while the Pelicans struggle at 8-31, anchoring the bottom of the Western Conference.

Team Overviews

Boston Celtics

The Celtics have been a formidable force this season, averaging 118.5 points per game. Their offensive prowess is spearheaded by Jayson Tatum, who contributes 28.1 points and 5.5 assists per game. Defensively, Tatum also leads with 9.2 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game, showcasing his all-around capabilities. The team’s efficiency is evident with a 36.6% success rate from beyond the arc and a solid 46.1% field goal percentage. Their defense is equally impressive, allowing only 108.4 points per game, supported by averages of 5.6 blocks and 7.7 steals.

New Orleans Pelicans

In contrast, the Pelicans have faced significant challenges, averaging 107.0 points per game. CJ McCollum stands out as their primary offensive threat, averaging 22.1 points and 3.8 assists per game. Yves Missi contributes defensively with 8.4 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game. The team struggles with shooting efficiency, holding a 33.6% three-point percentage and a 44.0% field goal percentage. Defensively, they allow 117.1 points per game, with averages of 5.4 blocks and 9.6 steals.

Recent Performances

The Celtics have experienced a mix of results in their recent games. A notable 118-106 victory over the Denver Nuggets highlighted their offensive depth, with Jayson Tatum and Kristaps Porziņģis leading the scoring. However, a subsequent 114-97 loss to the Sacramento Kings exposed vulnerabilities, particularly in ball security, as they committed 15 turnovers leading to 18 additional field goal attempts for the Kings.

The Pelicans, despite their overall struggles, secured a morale-boosting 123-115 win against the Philadelphia 76ers. CJ McCollum’s 38-point performance was instrumental in this victory. However, the team has been plagued by inconsistencies and off-court issues, notably the suspension of Zion Williamson for violating team policies, which has further disrupted their season.

Head-to-Head Matchup

Historically, the Celtics have dominated this matchup, winning 59% of their games against the Pelicans. In their last five encounters, Boston has emerged victorious each time. The Pelicans have averaged 99.1 points per game against the Celtics, indicating a struggle to penetrate Boston’s defense.

Injury Reports

Boston Celtics

• Jordan Walsh: Day-to-day (illness)
• Drew Peterson: Day-to-day (concussion)

New Orleans Pelicans

• Brandon Ingram: Day-to-day (ankle)
• Zion Williamson: Day-to-day (hamstring)
• Herbert Jones: Out (shoulder)
• Trey Murphy III: Day-to-day (ankle)

Prediction

Considering the current form, team statistics, and injury reports, the Boston Celtics are favored to win this matchup. Their balanced offense and defense, combined with the Pelicans’ struggles and potential absences of key players, tilt the scales in Boston’s favor. A predicted scoreline could be Celtics 118, Pelicans 105.

Betting Tips

• Point Spread: Celtics -12.5
• Over/Under: Over 220.5 points
• Player Prop: Jayson Tatum to score over 30.5 points

Conclusion

The January 13 matchup between the Boston Celtics and the New Orleans Pelicans presents a classic case of a dominant team facing a struggling opponent. While the Pelicans have the potential to surprise, the Celtics’ current form and historical advantage make them the clear favorites in this encounter.

Please note that betting involves risks. Consider your options carefully and bet responsibly.