Toronto Raptors vs. Boston Celtics Series Best Bets (2020)
As we begin the re-start within the re-start that is the current NBA bubble in Orlando, the world at large struggles with the best way to move forward from one horrific event after another. When the NBA players do decide to come back on the court, however, one of the most historic NBA playoffs of all time will resume right where it left off.
For Boston and Toronto, injuries to key players will be the main storyline for both teams as each comes in missing a critical starter.
For Toronto, point guard Kyle Lowry is said to be day-to-day as he is dealing with a left ankle sprain that has him questionable for game one (should it be Saturday). As for Boston, small forward Gordon Hayward is dealing with a sprained ankle of his own, which could very well keep him out for the entire series.
With both injuries in mind, let’s take a look at some of the series-long bets I have my eye on as having the most value as the Eastern Conference semi-finals get underway (hopefully) this weekend.
Odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook.
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Game 1 – Boston Celtics ATS
While there is currently no line set because so much is still up in the air, I imagine Toronto to be the slight favorite in his one from anywhere from -1 to -3. Assuming Lowry does suit up, he’ll be limited on minutes while he tests out his ankle in a game setting, and it wouldn’t surprise me at all if they sit him entirely. With this in mind, I like the Celtics to grab game one, sensing the urgency to capitalize on Lowry’s absence on the court.
Series Correct Score – Raptors 4-3 (+440)
Though I think these odds are a bit short for predicting something as abstract as a correct series score, I do get the sense this series goes seven. I don’t see the Hayward injury as detrimental enough for the Celtics that they can’t push it seven, but ultimately I see the Raptors’ experience and size being the difference in the series.
Assuming Lowry can return to form in the latter stages of the series, I think the Raptors have enough firepower to close it out should they be able to force it to seven in what I predict a very competitive series.
Series Correct Score – Celtics 4-3 (+500)
Yes, I realize this contracts the above recommendation, but hear me out.
The one wild card in the above prediction is Kemba Walker. If he can get going to compliment the red hot Jaylen Brown, the Raptors could be in serious trouble, especially if Lowry is anything less than 90% healthy.
By playing both this and the Raptor’s 4-3 bet at the same amount, you’re guaranteed a profit if this series goes seven which I expect it to.
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TJ Perun is a featured writer at BettingPros. For more from TJ, check out his archive and follow him @JohnnyCovers.