Boston Celtics vs Sacramento Kings Picks and Predictions January 10th 2025

Kings Seek Sixth Straight Win in Test Against Celtics

The Sacramento Kings, riding a five-game winning streak under interim head coach Doug Christie, face a significant test Friday as they take on the Boston Celtics in the first of a three-game road trip. With both teams hitting their stride, the clash promises high-stakes action between two top-tier offenses.

Kings on the Rise

Since parting ways with head coach Mike Brown on Dec. 27, the Kings (18-18) have transformed their season under Christie, posting a 5-1 record and showcasing resilience. The team’s latest triumph came in a double-overtime thriller against the Miami Heat, a game they won despite trailing by 17 points and missing star point guard De’Aaron Fox, who remains sidelined with a hip injury.

“These guys continue to fight in a way that I hope makes our city proud,” Christie said after the win. “They’re willing to do whatever I’m asking them to do, and I’ve got their back on the other side.”

A major catalyst in Sacramento’s resurgence has been guard Keon Ellis. While averaging just 7.1 points per game on the season, Ellis has stepped up in Fox’s absence. Over the last four games, Ellis is averaging 12.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 3.0 steals, providing critical support on both ends of the court.

“Keon is a special player,” Christie said. “He has a lot of the things you don’t teach.”

The Kings are 8-7 on the road this season and will be looking to continue their upward trajectory as they seek their sixth straight win.

Celtics Find Stability

The Boston Celtics (27-8) return to TD Garden after a 3-1 road trip capped by a 118-106 victory over the Denver Nuggets. The game marked a turning point for Kristaps Porzingis, who recorded his first double-double of the season with 25 points and 11 rebounds.

“Honestly, (Tuesday) was one of the first games that I felt like I’m getting close to feeling healthy, feeling good, and getting back into good shape,” Porzingis said after the game.

Boston has relied on its balanced attack this season, ranking fourth in the NBA in scoring (118.5 points per game) and fifth in defense (108.3 points allowed). Porzingis, Jrue Holiday, and Jayson Tatum have formed a formidable trio that continues to anchor the Celtics’ performance at both ends.

The Celtics boast a 13-6 home record and will aim to defend their court against a surging Kings squad.

Key Matchup: Kings’ Identity vs. Celtics’ Execution

The Kings are in the midst of establishing their identity under Christie. Facing a disciplined Celtics team in Boston provides a litmus test for Sacramento’s progress. Christie emphasized the importance of this matchup as a learning experience:

“They’re the champs,” Christie said. “It doesn’t get any better when you watch them execute, how they go about their business. … There is no better place to walk into than (Boston) to figure it out.”

Sacramento’s fast-paced offense, averaging 116.0 points per game, will need to contend with Boston’s stifling defense and the efficient scoring of Tatum and Porzingis.

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What’s at Stake

For the Kings, a win would solidify their momentum and affirm their newfound identity under Christie. For the Celtics, maintaining their home dominance and continuing to build on Porzingis’ recent form are key objectives as they push to secure the top spot in the Eastern Conference.

With both teams hitting their stride, Friday’s matchup promises a high-intensity battle filled with strategic intrigue, offering fans a glimpse of playoff-caliber basketball.