The historic rivalry between the Los Angeles Lakers vs Boston Celtics continues on March 9, 2025, at TD Garden. With both teams fighting for playoff positioning, this matchup is expected to be highly competitive. Boston has been dominant at home, while the Lakers, led by LeBron James and Luka Dončić, are looking to pull off an upset.
In this in-depth preview, we'll cover:
- Match prediction and betting odds
- Key players to watch
- Win probability
- Injury updates
- Best bets and betting tips
Let’s dive into the analysis and find the best sports betting options for this exciting NBA showdown.
Match Preview: Los Angeles Lakers vs Boston Celtics
Game Details
- Date: Sunday, March 9, 2025
- Time: 8:30 PM ET
- Venue: TD Garden, Boston, MA
- Previous Meeting: Lakers won 117-96 on January 23, 2025
This game is crucial as both teams are pushing for a higher playoff seed. The Celtics hold an impressive 45-18 record, while the Lakers sit at 39-21.
Los Angeles Lakers vs Boston Celtics Betting Odds and Prediction
Moneyline Odds (Match Winner)
- Boston Celtics: 4/7 (1.57) – 63.64% probability
- Los Angeles Lakers: 11/8 (2.38) – 46.67% probability
The Celtics are favored, but the Lakers have the firepower to challenge them.
Read: How Moneyline Works?
Point Spread (Handicap Betting)
- Celtics -8.5 (-110)
- Lakers +8.5 (-110)
Over/Under Total Points
- Line Set at: 232.5 points
- Over 232.5 (-110)
- Under 232.5 (-110)
Both teams have top offensive talents, making Over 232.5 a tempting bet.
Correct Score Prediction
Given both teams' form, a high-scoring contest is likely. A possible outcome:
- Boston Celtics 122-113 Los Angeles Lakers
Player Prop Bets (Individual Performance Betting)
- Jayson Tatum Over 25 Points (-120)
- LeBron James Over 7 Assists (-110)
- Jaxson Hayes Over 10 Rebounds (-115)
- Jaylen Brown Over 20 Points (-110)
Tatum is Boston’s offensive leader, and LeBron creates scoring chances for teammates. Both props are strong picks.
First Scorer Bet (Who Scores First?)
- Jayson Tatum (+350)
- LeBron James (+400)
- Luka Dončić (+450)
Tatum leads Boston in early scoring, making him a top pick for the first basket.
Best Parlay (Accumulator Bet) for High Payouts
A parlay bet combines multiple wagers into one for higher potential payouts.
Example Parlay for Lakers vs Celtics:
- Celtics to Win (ML)
- Over 232.5 Total Points
- Jayson Tatum Over 25 Points
- LeBron James Over 7 Assists
A successful 4-leg parlay could increase returns by 5x or more compared to betting individually.
Key Players to Watch
Boston Celtics:
Jayson Tatum (SF)
- PPG: 26.6 | RPG: 8.7 | APG: 5.8
- Celtics' primary scorer, capable of taking over games.
Jaylen Brown (SG/SF)
- Consistently contributes on both ends of the floor.
Derrick White (PG/SG)
- A key playmaker with strong defensive skills.
Los Angeles Lakers:
LeBron James (SF/PF)
- PPG: 24.7 | RPG: 7.8 | APG: 8.7
- The leader of the Lakers, delivering elite performances at age 40.
Luka Dončić (PG/SG)
- PPG: 22.0 | RPG: 8.3 | APG: 6.8
- A game-changer who can dominate offensively.
Injury Updates and Team News
Boston Celtics:
- Kristaps Porziņģis (C/F) – OUT (Illness)
- Jrue Holiday (PG) – OUT (Finger injury)
- Al Horford (C/F) – Questionable (Toe injury)
Los Angeles Lakers:
- Austin Reaves (SG) – OUT (Calf injury)
- Rui Hachimura (F) – OUT (Knee injury)
- Maxi Kleber (PF) – OUT (Foot injury)
The Celtics' lack of frontcourt depth due to Porziņģis’ injury could impact their rebounding.
Best Bets and Predictions
1. Celtics to Win (-150 ML)
- Boston is tough to beat at home, and despite injuries, they should secure the win.
2. Over 232.5 Total Points (-110)
- Both teams play an up-tempo game, and high-scoring matchups are common.
3. Jayson Tatum Over 25 Points (-120)
- Tatum has been on fire, and he will likely lead the scoring again.
4. LeBron James Over 7 Assists (-110)
- Expect LeBron to facilitate the offense, especially with Dončić beside him.
5. Point Spread: Lakers +8.5 (-110)
- Boston should win, but Lakers can keep it close, making +8.5 a valuable bet.
Final Score Prediction and Conclusion
The Celtics are favored, but the Lakers’ dynamic duo of LeBron and Dončić could keep this close. Boston’s defense will be tested, especially without key players like Porziņģis.
Predicted Final Score:
Boston Celtics 122 - 113 Los Angeles Lakers
Best Bet: Over 232.5 Total Points and Jayson Tatum Over 25 Points
This game promises to be a thrilling showdown between two of the NBA’s biggest franchises. If you’re betting, Boston to win, Over 232.5, and Tatum Over 25 points are smart picks.
Bet responsibly, and enjoy the game!
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FAQs – Los Angeles Lakers vs Boston Celtics (March 9, 2025)
1. Where Can I Watch Lakers vs Celtics Live?
You can watch the game live on:
- TV Broadcast: ESPN, ABC, TNT
- Streaming Services: NBA League Pass, Hulu Live, YouTube TV, FuboTV
- Online Streaming (Official): OKBet’s live betting section
2. What Are the Best Betting Markets for This Game?
The most popular betting options include:
- Moneyline (Winner)
- Point Spread (-8.5 for Boston, +8.5 for Lakers)
- Over/Under Total Points (232.5)
- Player Props (Tatum, LeBron, Luka, AD stats)
- Parlays for higher payouts
3. Who Is Most Likely to Score First?
Jayson Tatum (+350) and LeBron James (+400) are the best first-basket bets.
4. What Are the Biggest Injuries for This Matchup?
- Boston Celtics: Kristaps Porziņģis (OUT), Jrue Holiday (OUT), Al Horford (Questionable)
- Los Angeles Lakers: Austin Reaves (OUT), Rui Hachimura (OUT), Maxi Kleber (OUT)
5. Is Betting on Over 232.5 a Smart Move?
Yes. Both teams play fast-paced basketball and have elite scorers. If you expect a high-scoring game, the Over is a good pick.
6. How Can I Get a Free Bet on Lakers vs Celtics?
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