Our Celtics vs. Nets player props feature Jayson Tatum, but we’re focused on him from a defensive standpoint tonight. Tonight’s Atlantic Division clash is one of two nationally televised contests on the NBA’s 10-game slate.
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Celtics vs. Nets NBA Odds & Player Props
NBA odds are subject to change leading up to tip-off and through the game. Be sure to check the best NBA betting sites for the latest prices and live betting odds.
Best Celtics vs. Nets Player Prop Picks
Marcus Smart Over 12.5 Points
The Celtics are 11-point home favorites, suggesting an elevated likelihood of a blowout. Jayson Tatum’s (28.5) and Jaylen Brown’s (24.5) point total props are a solid tick below their season averages. We’re not going to take the bait on their Overs, but we will lean Over on Smart.
A blowout win that allows Tatum and Brown to coast to a little more of a degree than usual should, in theory, afford more access to shot volume and usage for Smart. We’re not anticipating him hogging the rock or anything along those lines, but a little bit more opportunity against a mediocre Nets defense should be enough for him to reach 13 points.
Mikal Bridges (+3.5) vs. Jaylen Brown
We’re siding with Bridges remaining within four points of Brown, largely due to the blowout potential of this spot. Bridges is emerging as a primary offensive threat in his new digs, and he will be among the primary players tasked with keeping the Nets within respectable distance. However, there’s still a scenario in which the Celtics take control of the game to a degree that allows them to provide Brown a little more of a breather – of the Celtics’ 10 largest blowouts in which Brown played, he attempted fewer than 20 shots in eight.
Jayson Tatum Over 0.5 Blocks
We like what Bridges has done as a Brooklyn Net, but the fact remains that the Nets are spreading usage across a roster that no longer features NBA stars. Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving accounted for nearly 40 shots per game. It’s not disrespectful to suggest the players assuming those vacated field goal attempts are less talented than their predecessors.
Tatum is averaging 0.8 blocks per game and recorded at least one swat in six of his last 10. On paper, there should be some low-hanging fruit available for the taking. We’re eyeing at least one rejection from Tatum tonight.
Nicolas Claxton Under 2.5 Blocks + Steals
Claxton’s minutes in recent blowouts have been modest, and the double-digit spread suggests another blowout could be in the cards tonight. Although we appreciate the opportunity Bridges will have to put points on the board, we’re not quite as bullish on Claxton racking up the defensive production necessary for an Over.
The blowout potential is a key reason, but we’re also considering the offensive efficiency Boston projects to play with. In the event the Celtics build the big lead they’re projected to, it won’t be because they’re getting shots blocked left and right or turning the ball over frequently. As well as Claxton is performing defensively this season, we’re siding with the Under in this spot.
