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- What: NBA Regular Season Game
- When: December 2, 2024
- Who: Miami Heat vs. Boston Celtics
- Time: 7:30 p.m. EST
- Where: TD Garden (Boston, MA)
As we gear up for the Miami Heat’s clash with the Boston Celtics, the betting landscape is buzzing, especially with the Celtics favored by 10.5 points.
But hold up, before you throw your cash down on Boston, let’s break down why the Heat might just be the smart play to cover that spread.
First, let’s discuss injuries. Jaylen Brown and Derrick White both missed Sunday’s game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, and their status for Monday is still unknown.
These two aren’t just role players; they’re crucial to the Celtics’ success on both ends of the floor. Brown is a defensive stalwart, and White can light it up offensively.
If they’re out, the Celtics lose a significant amount of their defensive prowess and offensive firepower, which could open the door for Miami.
Before we examine our picks, be sure to check out the best NBA Basketball Betting Sites.
Game Preview (Heat vs. Celtics)
Now, let’s dive into the Heat’s game plan. Miami is known for their disciplined defense, and they’ve been doing a solid job of staying out of foul trouble.
| Spread |  |  |  |
| Miami Heat +10.5 Points | -110 | -110 | -110 |
| Boston Celtics -10.5 Points | -110 | -110 | -110 |
They might not be the highest-scoring team in the league, averaging the 11th-fewest points per game, but they know how to grind out games.
Their shooting percentage of 44.4% ranks them seventh-lowest in the NBA, which means they’re not exactly lighting up the scoreboard.
However, they can play tough defense, and that’s where they can keep the game close.
While the Celtics can play elite defense, they have shown vulnerabilities, especially when missing key players. If Brown and White are out, the Heat could exploit that.
Unstoppable 😤 pic.twitter.com/VseIiTVKO2
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) December 2, 2024
Miami’s defense is capable of stifling the Celtics’ offense, especially if they can limit the contributions from Jayson Tatum and the rest of the squad.
While the Celtics are the favorites, the potential absence of Brown and White could tip the scales in favor of the Heat.
Miami’s defensive capabilities and the Celtics’ possible struggles without their stars make this a prime opportunity for the Heat to cover the 10.5-point spread.
So, if you’re looking to place a bet, consider riding with Miami to keep it close, and possibly pull off the upset.
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Total Points
Let’s discuss the total points prop in this game.
| Total Points | | | |
| Over 220.5 | -110 | -110 | -110 |
| Under 220.5 | -110 | -110 | -110 |
The Heat’s ability to defend without fouling will be crucial in this matchup, as it allows them to maintain their defensive intensity without giving the Celtics easy points at the free-throw line.
Let’s not forget the pace of play. This game will likely be a slower affair, meaning fewer possessions and lower scoring.
In eight of their last nine games on the second night of a back-to-back, the Heat have seen the total points fall under the line. Conversely, each of the Celtics’ last four evening games at TD Garden has surpassed the total points line.
Tyler moved into #2 on our all-time 3s made list with this triple 🙌 pic.twitter.com/urpy0MYLNC
— Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) December 2, 2024
The Heat’s style of play tends to favor a more methodical approach, and if they can keep the game in the 90s, they’ll have a better chance of covering that spread.
The Celtics might win, but a blowout seems unlikely, especially if they’re missing key contributors. The Heat slowing the game down and the Celtics not being 100% healthy will definitely affect this total.
While 220.5 Points isn’t the highest total, this one feels like it will go under the total. Under 220.5 points at -110 odds is the best bet in this one.
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