The Boston Celtics will face the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 PM EST (4:30 PM PST).
Halftime Score Prediction:
Given both teams’ offensive capabilities and previous matchups, a closely contested first half is anticipated. A projected halftime score might be Celtics 58, Cavaliers 60.
Against the Spread (ATS) Prediction:
The Cavaliers are favored by 2 points in this matchup. Considering their strong home performance and the Celtics’ challenges against the spread this season, the Cavaliers are expected to cover the spread.
Best Bets:
- Cavaliers MONEY LINE at -120 With Cleveland’s impressive home record and Boston’s struggles against the spread, betting on the Cavaliers to cover the 2-point spread is also advisable.
- Over 236 Total Points: Both teams have potent offenses, and recent trends suggest a high-scoring game, making the over a favorable bet.
Best Prop Bets:
- Donovan Mitchell Over 33.5 Points + Rebounds + Assists: Mitchell has consistently performed well against the Celtics, averaging 35 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 4.1 assists in their last eight regular-season meetings. This makes the over on this combined stat line an attractive option.
- Jayson Tatum Over 25.5 Points: Tatum has been averaging 33.0 points per game against the Cavaliers this season, indicating he could surpass this points prop.
Please remember that while these predictions are based on current data and trends, outcomes can vary. Always consider the latest information and use discretion when placing bets.
RECENT TRENDS
| Cleveland Cavaliers | Over is 43-17 in CLE last 60 games as a favorite. CLE are 35-16 ATS in their last 51 games overall. Over is 35-16 in CLE last 51 overall. |
| Head to Head | Underdog is 10-4 ATS in the last 14 meetings. |
SCORE PROJECTION
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PREVIEW
The Eastern Conference’s top two teams clash Tuesday night as the Boston Celtics visit the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Cleveland remains atop the standings, with Boston trailing by 5.5 games.
Both teams are coming off impressive performances on Sunday. The Celtics erased a 26-point deficit to defeat Philadelphia 118-110, matching the largest comeback victory in the NBA this season. Boston closed the game strong, scoring 54 of the final 74 points to extend its winning streak to three.
“Our competitive spirit just wasn’t where it needed to be (in the first half),” Jayson Tatum admitted. “(Coach Joe Mazzulla) told us, ‘If you’re tired, let me know. I’ll sit you down and let the stay-ready group play.’
“We had a choice to make. The third quarter was long, and things didn’t turn around immediately, but we kept fighting. It brought out the best in us—that’s how we should play. It took contributions from everyone. Our competitive joy was there on both ends, and it was fun to be a part of.”
Meanwhile, Cleveland dominated Dallas 144-101, setting a franchise record with 26 made three-pointers. The Cavaliers poured in 91 first-half points and have now made at least 10 three-pointers in 54 consecutive games. The NBA record for such a streak belongs to the Houston Rockets (97 games).
Sam Merrill snapped out of a shooting slump in Cleveland’s win, draining nine three-pointers after missing all four of his attempts against Atlanta on Thursday. Merrill entered the game shooting 32.8% from deep—5.5 percentage points below his career average.
“It feels good to have a great shooting game, but it’s just one game,” Merrill said. “It’s all about finding rhythm. At times this season, I felt like I was getting there, but then I got sick last game. One good night was fun, but now we move on.”
Cleveland, riding a four-game winning streak, leads the NBA in three-point shooting percentage (39.6%) and averages 16.3 made threes per game—second only to Boston (17.8).
“For some guys, it’s about making shots, but for (Merrill), he’s such a good all-around player that (Sunday’s performance) is just icing on the cake,” Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson said. “We all knew it was coming. He’s a great shooter who’s had some struggles, but his defense and effort never waver. He’s a key piece of our bench and team.”
Tuesday marks the third meeting between these teams this season. Cleveland started 15-0 before Boston handed them a 120-117 loss on Nov. 19. The Cavaliers responded with a 115-111 home victory on Dec. 1.
Cleveland boasts a 24-3 home record, but Boston has thrived on the road (19-6) compared to its home performance (16-9) this season.
