Preview: Boston Celtics vs. Los Angeles Lakers – Prediction, Team Updates, and Form Guide
The NBA’s two most legendary teams will go head-to-head at TD Garden on Sunday as the Boston Celtics take on the Los Angeles Lakers.
The Celtics come into the game on a three-game winning streak, while the Lakers aim to stretch their own impressive run to nine consecutive victories.
Match Preview
Boston Celtics vs. Los Angeles Lakers – Prediction, Team Updates, and Form Guide
After enduring consecutive losses for the first time since Christmas, the Celtics rebounded with a win against the Denver Nuggets in a clash of recent champions. They followed that up with victories over the Portland Trail Blazers and Philadelphia 76ers.
Joe Mazzulla’s team dominated from the start against Philadelphia, building an 18-point halftime lead that ultimately proved too much for their opponents to overcome in a largely one-sided game.
Jayson Tatum, returning after missing the Blazers matchup, delivered a standout performance with a game-high 35 points on 14-23 shooting, including five three-pointers, while also grabbing seven rebounds and dishing out two assists—despite sitting out the fourth quarter.
With a five-game cushion over the New York Knicks for second place in the Eastern Conference, the Celtics appear secure in their position. However, overtaking the Cleveland Cavaliers for the top seed seems unlikely.
This game is the fifth of a seven-game homestand for Boston, and they’ll look to keep their momentum going against their biggest rivals before hosting the Utah Jazz and Oklahoma City Thunder.
Blockbuster trades don’t always pay off immediately, but Luka Dončić’s early days with the Lakers indicate that Los Angeles made a smart move acquiring the Slovenian playmaker.
Following their hard-fought 113-109 overtime win against the New York Knicks at Crypto.com Arena on Friday, JJ Redick’s squad has now won eight straight games and boasts an 8-2 record with Dončić in the starting lineup.
Dončić (32 points, eight assists) and LeBron James (31 points, 12 rebounds) have quickly developed chemistry, each recording back-to-back 30-point performances.
The Lakers’ surge has lifted them to second place in the Western Conference, though they have played one more game than the Denver Nuggets, who remain just behind them as the regular season winds down.
Sunday’s trip to Boston marks the beginning of a tough four-game road swing for the Lakers, which will also feature matchups against the Brooklyn Nets, Milwaukee Bucks, and Denver Nuggets.
Boston Celtics NBA Form:
Los Angeles Lakers NBA Form:
W
W
W
W
W
W
Team News
Jaylen Brown and Sam Hauser are doubtful for Sunday’s game, as both missed the Celtics’ win over Philadelphia due to knee and ankle issues, respectively.
Kristaps Porzingis was also unavailable for that contest due to illness, and his status remains uncertain. Additionally, Al Horford (toe sprain) and Jrue Holiday (finger) may also be sidelined.
Jayson Tatum continues to thrive, ranking as one of just two players (alongside reigning MVP Nikola Jokić) leading their team in points, rebounds, and assists this season.
For the Lakers, Maxi Kleber and Rui Hachimura are ruled out, with Kleber recovering from right foot surgery and Hachimura dealing with a left knee injury.
Markieff Morris missed the Knicks game due to illness, and it remains uncertain whether he will be available for Sunday’s matchup.
Boston Celtics Possible Starting Five:
White, Tatum; Peterson, Kornet; Porzingis
Los Angeles Lakers Possible Starting Five:
Dončić, Reaves; James, Finney-Smith; Hayes
Prediction: Lakers to Win by 5+ Points
With the Celtics dealing with multiple injuries, the Lakers should feel confident about securing a win in Boston. Expect them to do just enough to come out on top.