OKC Thunder vs Boston Celtics Prediction and Betting Tips | April 3, 2024

The Wednesday schedule for the NBA includes nine games, one of which is the highly anticipated matchup between the OKC Thunder and Boston Celtics. This will be the last time the two teams face off this season, with OKC emerging victorious in their previous encounter on Jan. 2 with a score of 127-123.

With that said, it’s time to delve into the OKC Thunder vs Boston Celtics preview, complete with the prediction, starting lineups, and betting tips for Apr. 3.

Despite the Celtics holding a historical advantage of 78-66 against the Thunder, OKC emerged victorious in their most recent encounter. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s impressive performance of 36 points, six rebounds, seven assists, and one steal led his team to victory. However, Kristaps Porzingis of the Celtics put up a valiant effort with 34 points, 10 rebounds, two assists, and three blocks.

NBA Game Preview: OKC Thunder vs Boston Celtics

The game between OKC Thunder and Boston Celtics is set to take place on Wednesday, Apr. 3 at TD Garden.

The match will commence at 7:30 p.m. EDT and will be shown on ESPN for a national audience. It will also air on NBC Sports Boston and Bally Sports OK. Viewers can also opt to watch the game live on fuboTV or NBA League Pass.

Moneyline: According to the moneyline, the Celtics are favored to win with odds of -380, while the Thunder have odds of +300.

Total (Over/Under): Thunder and Celtics have equal odds at -110 for a combined score either over or under 230.5 points.

Preview: Oklahoma City Thunder vs Boston Celtics

Despite their loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on Tuesday, the Thunder (52-23) remain in third place in the Western Conference.

Despite Joel Embiid’s absence from the Philly lineup, SGA and Jalen Williams’ absence had a greater impact on the loss. Chet Holmgren still managed to contribute 22 points and seven rebounds in the defeat.

The Celtics (59-16) currently hold the top spot in the Eastern Conference with the best overall record in the NBA. They are on a two-game winning streak, their most recent victory being a 118-104 triumph over the Charlotte Hornets on Monday. Jayson Tatum led the team with 25 points and 10 rebounds, while Kristaps Porzingis and Derrick White contributed 20 and 19 points, respectively.

NBA Game Preview: OKC Thunder vs Boston Celtics Starting Lineups, Substitutions, and Rotations

The absence of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (quad) and Jalen Williams (ankle) on Tuesday’s game left the Thunder without two key players. It is important to keep an eye on their status before Wednesday’s game. If they are still unable to play, OKC coach Mark Daigneault will likely have to make adjustments to his starting lineup.

The starting lineup for the team consists of Josh Giddey as the point guard, Aaron Wiggins as the shooting guard, Luguentz Dort as the small forward, Jaylin Williams as the power forward, and Chet Holmgren as the center.

The ideal replacement players for the Thunder would be Isaiah Joe, Gordon Hayward, and Cason Wallace.

Both Jaylen Brown and Jaden Springer are listed as questionable for the Celtics’ upcoming game due to a hand and knee injury, respectively. It remains to be seen if Boston coach Joe Mazzulla will include them in the starting lineup.

Point Guard: Jrue Holiday Shooting Guard: Derrick White Small Forward: Jayson Tatum Power Forward: Al Horford Center: Kristaps Porzingis

The main replacements for Boston would consist of Payton Pritchard and Sam Hauser.

Expert Betting Tips for the OKC Thunder vs Boston Celtics Matchup

Based on his track record, Jayson Tatum has consistently scored an average of 24.7 points in 12 games against the Thunder. With an over/under of 26.5 points, it is likely that he will have a strong performance and exceed this benchmark.

Kristaps Porzingis is expected to score over 19.5 points, as he has proven to be a crucial addition to the Boston team this season. As the playoffs are approaching, Porzingis is likely to play with a fierce determination and contribute significantly to the team’s scoring.

Predicting the Outcome of the OKC Thunder vs Boston Celtics Game

The Celtics are expected to win at home, and for good reason. The Thunder may be at a disadvantage with injuries to their top players, SGA and Jalen Williams. Boston is likely to cover the spread and secure a victory. Given that both teams are missing key offensive players, it is likely that the total score will remain below 230.5 points.