Game Preview
The Boston Celtics enter Tuesday's matchup against the Toronto Raptors riding a strong season, sporting a 23-9 record and 71.9 win percentage. However, they'll be looking to bounce back from a recent hiccup, having dropped their last game to snap a modest one-game skid.
Offensively, the Celtics have been a juggernaut, averaging nearly 120 points per game on the back of efficient shooting from the field (45.9%) and a shade above 36% from beyond the arc. They've also dominated the glass, grabbing just over 45 rebounds per contest. While their scoring has dipped slightly over their last 10 games, averaging 117.2 points, their overall numbers remain impressive.
Defensively, Boston has clamped down, allowing just 110.1 points per game while forcing over 11 turnovers. Their interior presence has been particularly stout, swatting away 5.5 shots per night. However, they'll need to tighten up after a slight dip in defensive intensity during their last five outings, surrendering 110.4 points.
On the other side, the Raptors limp into this matchup reeling from a 10-game losing skid that has them sitting at a dismal 7-25 on the season. Their struggles have been particularly pronounced of late, getting outscored by nearly 17 points per game over their last five contests.
Despite their woes, Toronto has shown flashes offensively, averaging 117.1 points for the season on a respectable 46.4% shooting clip. They've also moved the ball well, dishing out 30.1 assists per game. However, sloppy play has plagued them, coughing up a whopping 16.7 turnovers per night.
Defensively is where the Raptors have truly faltered, surrendering 119.1 points per game while struggling to contain dribble penetration and protect the rim. They've been particularly porous lately, allowing 129 points per game over their last five while getting outrebounded and failing to create turnovers.
With the Celtics clicking on both ends and the Raptors reeling, this matchup has all the makings of another long night for the struggling visitors. Boston's combination of offensive firepower and defensive intensity could prove overwhelming for a Toronto squad desperately seeking answers to arrest their lengthy slide.