Boston Celtics - Denver Nuggets predictions and free betting tips [20/01/2024]

The Denver Nuggets are heading to TD Garden to clash with the Boston Celtics on Saturday morning.

Boston Celtics

The Boston Celtics have demonstrated an impressive level of play, securing 12 wins from their last 15 games, with their most recent triumph over the San Antonio Spurs scoring 117:98 noted as the most straightforward leg in this series. Jason Tatum was instrumental in this victory, bagging 24 points, while Jrue Holiday added another 22, and Jaylen Brown earned 21 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists. Mazulla's crew showed their expertise in three-pointers, making 18 out of 38 attempts and scoring a solid 70 points in the first half of the game, creating a significant lead.

This success reinforced their season's accomplishments as the Celtics become the 13th team in NBA history to open the season with 20 consecutive home floor victories. Coach Joe Mazulla emphasised the crucial connection the team has with the city, and the distinct playstyle the Celtics showcase. Despite the absence of key players such as Kristaps Porzingis and Derrick White, the team exhibited excellent performance, underscoring their strength and squad depth.
Jaylen Brown highlights the focus on constant improvement and preparation for the playoffs as the principal theme for the Celtics. With these results and approach, Boston looks ready for significant playoff challenges, continuing to bolster their positions in the league table.

Denver Nuggets

The Denver Nuggets have shown excellent form, having won 11 of their last 15 games, but their most recent confrontation against Philadelphia, ending in a 121:126 defeat, proved a tough test. Nikola Jokic, two-time NBA MVP, made a significant contribution to the game, bagging 25 points, 19 rebounds, and only 3 assists, making 11 out of 20 shots. Michael Porter Jr added 20 points, while Jamal Murray earned 17 points and 10 assists.

The Nuggets showed confident gameplay in the first half, scoring 78 points and gaining a slight advantage, but in the fourth quarter, Philadelphia managed to make a decisive 18:2 run, which allowed them to surge ahead. This setback dropped the Nuggets to 11th-10th place in the season, highlighting some difficulties the team faces this season. Coach Michael Malone expressed pride in the team's efforts but also underscored the need for more careful play and defence enhancement. The Nuggets' next game, which is a part of a five-match away tour, will be a crucial stage for the team, especially considering their upcoming match against the Celtics in the regular championship, scheduled for 8 March in Denver.

Prediction for the match Boston Celtics - Denver Nuggets

The Nuggets stumbled in their last game against the Sixers, but they do not seem to be such clear underdogs against the Celtics, even considering Boston's 20-game home floor undefeated run. Denver might well break that run; the Nuggets had ample rest, all the key players are starting, but I will take caution and bet on a plus handicap.