Exciting NBA Matchup: Celtics vs. Thunder Highlights and Betting Insights

Two top-tier NBA teams are set to battle on ESPN this Wednesday night, when the Boston Celtics (47-18, holding a 23-11 record at home) take on the Oklahoma City Thunder (53-12, with an impressive 24-7 away record). The action kicks off at 7:30 p.m. ET.

The Thunder aim to extend their current six-game winning streak on the road, despite missing Jalen Williams (hip), who didn’t travel to Boston and has no set date for return. Meanwhile, the Celtics might have to worry as their star, Jayson Tatum, is uncertain for the game due to a knee injury.

ESPN BET offers a wide range of prop bets for the matchup, featuring the Celtics (-2.5, 229.5) against the Thunder. Betting experts Andre Snellings and Eric Moody share their top picks.

Recommended Bets

Thunder +2.5 (-105)

I’m impressed with the Celtics’ performance, enjoying a five-game winning streak, and many see them gearing up for a title defense. But let’s not overlook the Thunder, who have been extraordinary throughout the season. They’re currently playing some of their best basketball. Leading the NBA in scoring margin, they outshine opponents by 12.6 points per game, with eight wins in their last nine games, demonstrating strength even in Jalen Williams’ absence. According to Basketball Reference, the Thunder outscore opponents by 18 points per 100 possessions without Williams.

The Celtics have three starters on the injury list, with both Tatum and Kristaps Porzingis as questionable. In their January encounter, the Thunder handed the Celtics a 13-point loss. I view the Thunder as favored in this clash, making them a great value pick alongside the points. – Snellings

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Over 44.5 Points, Rebounds, and Assists (-115)

Despite the Celtics ranking fifth in defensive rating, they’ve had difficulties against point guards this season. Boston concedes the fifth-most points and seventh-most rebounds per game to the position. On the other hand, Gilgeous-Alexander has been on an exceptional run recently, exceeding this line in three of his last five outings, averaging 24 field attempts, 7.6 rebound opportunities, and 13.8 potential assists a game. He has beaten this benchmark in his previous two appearances against the Celtics and is expected to play a key role, especially with Williams unavailable. – Moody

Jayson Tatum Over 15.5 Assists and Rebounds (-130)

In high-stakes games, Tatum and Jaylen Brown become pivotal — the kind of games that grab intense attention. Recently, this was evident in their matchups against the Lakers and Cavaliers. Tatum surpassed this line in seven out of his last 10 games, missing only in blowouts. He averages 11.8 potential assists and 13.8 rebound opportunities per game, which should give him a solid chance to exceed this line (providing he’s in the game). – Moody

Jaylen Brown and Gilgeous-Alexander Both to Score Over 29.5 Points and Celtics to Win (+550)

Let’s make this interesting. You’ve already seen my thoughts on Gilgeous-Alexander, now let’s focus on Brown. Although he’s crossed this line in only two of his five recent games, those performances came against tough opponents — the Cavaliers and Lakers. Against the Cavs, he managed 24 attempts, and against the Lakers, 25. This matchup could preview the NBA Finals, with the Celtics keen to demonstrate their superiority following their previous home defeat to OKC two months ago. – Moody