The Boston Celtics are coming off one of the most embarrassing losses of the season. Leading by nine points with seven minutes left in regulation, the Celtics didn’t score another field goal the rest of the way.
They only scored five points – all from free throws –and lost to the Portland Trail Blazers. They are on a two-game losing streak after winning five of their last six.
On the other hand, the Washington Wizards have lost their last two as well. However, they won four of their last five before that, similar to Boston.
Which of these teams can break that cycle first? Let’s take a look at this NBA game betting preview.
Game: Boston Celtics (23-24) at Washington Wizards (23-23)
Location: Capital One Arena, Washington, DC
Day/Time: Sunday, 3:30 p.m. ET
Television: NBCS-DC
Boston Celtics at Washington Wizards
Celtics Need Better Ball Movement
It’s been pointed out a lot this season, but the Celtics aren’t trusting one another as they should. Marcus Smart hinted at this earlier in the season and fans have noticed.
Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown are both taking tons of shots per game, with minimal ball movement throughout each possession. While these two guys are putting up solid stats, it really shines a light on the rest of the roster and what they are accomplishing.
There is a clear chemistry issue here and until they start to play more as a team, they will continue to stumble throughout the season.
Players like Dennis Schroder need to get the ball moving more and the rest of the roster has to do a better job of moving without the basketball.
Washington Has Plenty of Playmakers
The Wizards have been a lot better than people expected. Their chemistry is surprisingly solid despite a good amount of roster turnover.
Bradley Beal is continuing his great scoring, averaging 23.7 points per game. Kyle Kuzma has been excellent addition with 15.7 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per contest.
Other role players like Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Daniel Gafford, Deni Avdija, and Montrezl Harrell have been stellar.
If Washington wants to break out of this losing streak, they are going to have to keep the ball moving and allow their best playmakers to get it going early.
Washington Narrow Favorites
Despite being a little bit further down in the power rankings, the Wizards are one-point favorites in the sportsbook heading into this upcoming matchup.
Beal and company have played stellar basketball at times throughout the year and regardless of their record, have the playmakers to get the job done.
As for the Celtics, it isn’t a question about their talent. Far too often this season, those who bet online have seen them collapse in the fourth quarter and go long stretches without scoring.
It has become too consistent and much of that is due to their lack of ball movement in the offense. They haven’t shown any desire to improve either, which is why the Wizards seem to be a much better pick to win this game versus the NBA odds.
