The Boston Celtics head to Toronto on the second night of a back-to-back, but they couldn't be playing much better basketball. Boston has won four straight games and continues to establish itself as one of the NBA's elite defensive teams, ranking among the league's top five in points allowed per game. Tuesday's 123-101 victory over Philadelphia showcased that identity once again, as the Celtics smothered the Sixers defensively while receiving another outstanding performance from Paul George. Even with the quick turnaround, Boston's depth and defensive versatility have allowed them to maintain a high level of play regardless of the schedule.
Toronto, meanwhile, will once again be shorthanded without Kawhi Leonard and Scottie Barnes -- leaving the Raptors without two of their top offensive weapons. Jamal Shead and Jakob Poeltl have done an admirable job keeping the offense afloat, but asking Toronto to consistently score against one of the NBA's stingiest defenses is a difficult task. While Boston may not have its usual offensive explosiveness on tired legs, that actually strengthens the case for Toronto's team total under. The Celtics should be able to dictate the pace, force the Raptors into difficult half-court possessions and limit easy transition opportunities. With Toronto's offense already depleted and Boston continuing to defend at an elite level, it's difficult to see the Raptors generating enough consistent scoring to reach this number.
Celtics vs Raptors prediction: Toronto TT Under 105.5 (-110) available at time of publishing. Playable to 104 (-110).
