La Clippers vs Boston Celtics Picks and Predictions January 22nd 2025

High-flying Celtics take aim at Clippers

Fresh off a commanding 40-point victory over the Golden State Warriors, the Boston Celtics are gearing up to face the short-handed Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday night in Inglewood, California. Boston, riding high on momentum, aims to continue their dominance, while the Clippers look to overcome injuries and a grueling schedule.

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Celtics Riding a Wave of Momentum

The Celtics kicked off their four-game California road trip with a 125-85 thrashing of the Warriors in San Francisco. Jayson Tatum led the charge with 22 points and nine rebounds, while Kristaps Porzingis contributed 18 points. Jaylen Brown added 17, and the team as a whole shot an impressive 53.3% from the field.

Boston’s defensive prowess was on full display, holding the Warriors to just 34.8% shooting. A decisive third quarter saw the Celtics outscore Golden State 43-24, effectively sealing the game before the final period.

“Our attention to detail and physicality really set the tone,” Tatum said postgame. Head coach Joe Mazzulla echoed the sentiment, praising the team’s focus and defensive intensity.

Porzingis, who has struggled with injuries this season, appears to be finding his rhythm. Over his last seven games, he has averaged 20.6 points and 8.6 rebounds, adding a vital inside presence to Boston’s attack.

The Celtics now look to maintain this level of play as they continue their trip, with upcoming games against the Clippers, Lakers, and Mavericks.

Clippers Face Uphill Battle

The Los Angeles Clippers enter Wednesday’s matchup on the heels of a 112-99 loss to the Chicago Bulls. Missing key players Kawhi Leonard and Ivica Zubac, the Clippers struggled offensively, managing just 16 points in the third quarter and getting outrebounded 54-40.

Leonard, who has battled a knee injury, and Zubac, recovering from an eye injury sustained in a win over the Lakers, have already been ruled out for Wednesday’s game. Their absences leave significant gaps in the Clippers’ lineup. Zubac, in particular, has been a cornerstone of the team’s defense, averaging 12.7 rebounds per game, fourth-best in the NBA.

Norman Powell and James Harden, both listed as questionable with back and groin issues respectively, add further uncertainty to the Clippers’ rotation. Powell scored 27 points in Monday’s loss, while Harden added 17.

Head coach Tyronn Lue acknowledged the team’s offensive struggles, stating, “We played way too slow and let the defense set up. When we’re playing small, we have to push the pace.”

With six games packed into a demanding 10-day stretch, the Clippers face the dual challenges of fatigue and depleted personnel.

NBA Picks & Predictions from The Best Expert Handicappers

Key Matchups and Storylines

1. Boston’s Defense vs. Clippers’ Offense
   The Celtics have showcased elite defensive capabilities, allowing just 85 points to Golden State. Their ability to neutralize Los Angeles’ scoring threats, particularly Harden and Powell, will be pivotal.
2. Battle of the Bigs
   Kristaps Porzingis could have a field day in Zubac’s absence, dominating the boards and creating mismatches inside.
3. Injury Impact
   With Leonard and Zubac sidelined, the Clippers will rely on role players like Mo Bamba, who had 10 points and seven rebounds in his first start of the season. For Boston, Jrue Holiday (shoulder) and Al Horford (toe) are questionable but may play crucial roles if available.
4. Clippers’ Pace Adjustment
   The Clippers need to heed Lue’s call for faster play to offset Boston’s disciplined defense.

What’s at Stake

For the Celtics, Wednesday’s game is an opportunity to assert their status as one of the NBA’s elite teams. A win would further solidify their position in the Eastern Conference standings. Meanwhile, the Clippers aim to stay afloat in the highly competitive Western Conference despite their injury woes.

Prediction

Given the Celtics’ recent form and the Clippers’ depleted roster, Boston appears poised to secure another win. However, if the Clippers can find a rhythm offensively and control the pace, they could make things interesting.

Conclusion

The Celtics-Clippers matchup promises an intriguing clash of contrasting narratives: a high-flying Boston team looking to sustain their dominance versus a resilient Los Angeles squad battling adversity. With stars like Jayson Tatum and Kristaps Porzingis in top form, the Celtics are clear favorites, but the Clippers’ depth and determination could still provide a competitive edge.