Los Angeles Lakers

Los Angeles Lakers vs Boston Celtics Prediction, Odds and Picks for Today, 12/05/25

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Lakers
16-5
Lakers
Today
Celtics
13-9
Celtics
Boston Celtics
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Lakers vs Celtics Pickswise Expert Predictions

Point Spread Pick
BOS Celtics -6.5(-110)

Boston enters tonight riding one of its strongest stretches of the season, having won 8 of its last 10 and finally hitting the groove many expected after a slow start. Even on the second night of a back-to-back, the Celtics are in a favorable position because Jaylen Brown sat yesterday with an illness, leaving him fresh for this matchup. Their overall rhythm on both ends has tightened — ball movement is sharper, defensive rotations are crisp, and role players like Jordan Walsh have taken meaningful steps. Walsh’s defensive activity and ability to impact possessions without needing touches have added valuable versatility to Boston’s second unit. This improved depth is a big reason why the Celtics continue to handle these scheduling spots effectively.

The Lakers, however, enter at a clear disadvantage. They’re also on a back-to-back but will be without LeBron James, and Luka Doncic remains out for personal reasons — removing two key playmakers and scorers. Without them, the offensive ceiling drops dramatically, and LA has to rely on Austin Reaves and secondary creators who have struggled to sustain efficient offense for a full 48 minutes. Boston’s improved defensive cohesion, plus their current momentum, sets up a difficult scenario for a shorthanded Lakers team that likely won’t be able to keep pace. Given the trajectory of both sides and the talent gap created by the absences, this projects as a strong spot for Boston at home.

Lakers vs Celtics Prediction: Boston Celtics -6.5 (-110) available at time of publishing. Playable to -7.

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Justin Ziolkowski

NBA and college basketball handicapper for Pickswise.
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