Boston Celtics vs Miami Heat Prediction & Betting Tips - NBA

Prediction published on 30/01/2022, 18:40  by Joseph King | Modified on 31/01/2022 at 00:40 in NBA Predictions

The Boston Celtics host the Miami Heat for this classic Eastern Conference rivalry at the TD Garden on Monday. The Heat hold the best record in the East with 32 wins and 18 losses although it’s a tight race for the #1 seed with first through sixth only separated by 2.5 games. Both teams are playing their third game in four days so fatigue could play a factor, especially for the visitors who are coming off a grueling triple-overtime defeat to the Raptors on Saturday. This is Miami’s first challenge in an upcoming six game road trip that won’t see them return home until February 12th. The Celtics are clinging to life in the playoff picture, currently sitting in the ninth seed with a 26-25 record. Usually a model of consistency, it’s been a strange year for the Celtics and they will be looking to build some momentum here after coming off a 107-97 win away against the Pelicans. 

The Celtics come into this game as favorites which is a bit surprising at first glance. They have been fairly strong at home this season, posting a 16-10 record, while the Heat are only slightly above .500 on the road at 14-12. Still though, Miami are an excellent squad and have the Celtics beat when it comes to bench depth - which should play a major role given the likelihood of some tired legs out there for both sides. An interesting trend to note is that when Boston come into a game as favorites they have an against the spread record of 16-17, while Miami is 13-3 against the spread as underdogs this season. The Celtics are a talented team but have struggled with consistency this season and their 23rd ranked field goal percentage is a good representation of that. Miami have the coaching advantage, bench advantage and form advantage making them a good proposition with the points in this matchup.