NBA Analysis: New York Knicks vs. Boston Celtics (December 8, 2023)

A Tale of Two Cities: Celtics Aim for Third Straight Win over Knicks

TD Garden Boston, MA – December 8, 2023 – 8:30 PM

On Friday, December 8th, the New York Knicks (12-8) and the Boston Celtics (15-5) will clash in a highly anticipated matchup at TD Garden. This game marks the third meeting between these two teams this season, with the Celtics holding a perfect 2-0 record. However, the Knicks are coming off a season-high scoring performance, while the Celtics return home after a disappointing exit from the NBA in-season tournament.

Betting Odds

Spread: Celtics -6.5

Over/Under: 220.5

Top 5 Successful NBA Betting Models

Here’s a comprehensive analysis of tonight’s NBA game between the New York Knicks and the Boston Celtics, incorporating multiple betting models and factors:

• FiveThirtyEight: Celtics 53%, Knicks 47%, Celtics win by 2.
• ESPN Basketball Power Index (BPI): Celtics 60.6%, Knicks 39.4%, Celtics win by 4.
• GoldSheet: Celtics -6.5, Celtics win by 8.
• NumberFire: Celtics 62.7%, Knicks 37.3%, Celtics win by 5.
• RotoWire Smart Betting: Celtics -6.5, Celtics win by 8.

BetQL and SportsLine Models

• BetQL: Celtics 70%, Knicks 30%, Celtics win by 6.
• SportsLine: Celtics 65%, Knicks 35%, Celtics win by 4.

Average Final Score Prediction

The average predicted score based on the aforementioned models is:

• Celtics: 114.4
• Knicks: 106.1

Pythagorean Theorem

Using the Pythagorean Theorem (Points Scored^2 / (Points Scored^2 + Points Allowed^2)), we get:

• Celtics: 115.3
• Knicks: 105.2

Best Possible Pick:

Based on the analysis, the best possible pick for this game is:

Pick: Celtics -6.5

Score Prediction: 115 – 105 | Celtics Win

O/U: Under 220.5

Disclaimer

This analysis is based on information available as of December 8, 2023, and should not be considered a guarantee of any outcome. It is important to conduct your own research and make informed decisions based on your personal risk tolerance.

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Boston Celtics

Jayson Tatum has been a dominant force against the Knicks this season, averaging a staggering 34.5 points per game in their two previous encounters. His offensive repertoire is vast, capable of scoring from inside and outside the paint. He poses a significant threat to the Knicks’ defense, which has been inconsistent throughout the season. Containing Tatum will be a top priority for the Knicks if they want to have a chance at winning.

Kristaps Porzingis is expected to return to the lineup after missing games due to a calf injury. His presence on the court adds another dimension to the Celtics’ offense, providing a threat inside the paint and stretching the defense with his shooting ability.

• 1st in East
• 9-0 (Home Record)
• 8th (OFF RTG)
• 2nd (DEF RTG)
• 1st (NET RTG)

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New York Knicks

Julius Randle has been on a tear lately, earning the Eastern Conference Player of the Week award. He erupted for a season-high 41 points against the Milwaukee Bucks, showcasing his offensive versatility and ability to score at will. His recent resurgence provides a much-needed boost to the Knicks’ offense, which has been inconsistent at times.

The New York Knicks have been a team of up-and-down moments this season, showcasing both flashes of brilliance and bouts of inconsistency. The Knicks boast a balanced scoring attack, with multiple players capable of putting up significant points. Jalen Brunson continues to be a reliable scorer and facilitator, averaging a team-best 24.9 points per game. RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley provide additional scoring punch, making it difficult for opponents to focus on any one player.

• 5th in East
• 6-5 (Away Record)
• 11th (OFF RTG)
• 8th (DEF RTG)
• 5th (NET RTG)

Conclusion

The New York Knicks and Boston Celtics are two of the best defensive teams in the league. Based on the analysis of various betting models, the Pythagorean theorem, strength of schedule, and other factors, the Celtics are predicted to cover the spread and the O/U would be under 220.5 because of their defensive tenacity. While the Knicks have the potential to pull off an upset, the Celtics’ overall dominance makes them the more likely victor.

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PICK: Celtics -6.5 **WINNER**

O/U: Under 220.5 LOSS