Both the Los Angeles Clippers and Boston Celtics already look to be good value for a place in the playoffs this season. However, the Clippers will come into their game in Boston needing a win to end a patchy run of form over recent weeks.
Celtics vs Clippers Preview
Celtics Looking For Third Consecutive Win
The Boston Celtics reached the NBA Conference Finals in the Eastern Conference last season, and they will once again be looking to at least match that. Boston have been able to end a recent run of bad form to win their last two, and a win over the Clippers would their third victory on the bounce. The Celtics currently have a win percentage of -500, which is the aim for all sides looking to finish in the playoff positions. However, there could still be work to be done in the East for them, as a number of sides are within a couple of victories of matching that record.
The Celtics have won their last two since defeat against the Atlanta Hawks last week. Their first victory in that recent run came at home against the Indiana Pacers. Most recently, they edged to a one-point win over the Washington Wizards. The Celtics were able to just about hang on to win 111-110. Jayson Tatum scored 31 points, eight rebounds and three assists in the victory. Meanwhile, Kemba Walker finished with 21, while Daniel Theis concluded the game with 20 points.
Clippers Looking For Return To Winning Ways
The Los Angeles Clippers have also been in patchy form most recently, as they have lost four of their previous ten. The Clippers currently sit in third in the Western Conference, but a win this week on the road against the Celtics would see them move up to second. However, defeat could see them drop a place to fourth. Los Angeles were beaten in their most recent game by the Milwaukee Bucks.
The Clippers and Bucks played out an excellent game, but it was the hosts that were able to claim the 105-100 victory in the end. Kawhi Leonard led in points for the Clippers, as he former MVP scored 25, as well as adding nine rebounds and three assists. Serge Ibaka finished with 15 and eleven rebounds, while Paul George scored 16 points. Lou Williams and Marcus Morris Sr both also scored more than ten points in the defeat.
Celtics vs Clippers Recent Meetings
The Clippers had a very good record against the Celtics up until the final meeting between the sides last season. Boston’s win in OT ended a four-game winning streak for the Clippers. The Celtics have now won two on the bounce, as they won the game earlier in the campaign 119-115.
Celtics vs Clippers Prediction
These two sides will both be competing in the playoffs this season, but on current form, it looks unlikely to be a potential finals match-up. The Clippers would be our bet to bounce back to winning ways.
Pick: Los Angeles Clippers (-4.5)
