It’s 2022, and after ending 2021 on a rare high note, the Boston Celtics look to begin the year on the right foot.
Tonight, the Cs host the Orlando Magic, the Eastern Conference’s second worst team, at the TD Garden. Most of Boston’s players previously entered into COVID-19 Health and Safety protocols are now eligible to play, though Jayson Tatum is still listed as questionable.
The Magic are far less fortunate, missing key pieces in Cole Anthony, Mo Bamba, and Chuma Okeke while Markelle Fultz’ season debut will have to wait after his recent return to practice.
Will things be different in 2022 after a year of losing in 2021? Well, Hardwood Houdini is here to dish out some holiday odds, TV channel info, and a prediction ahead of Sunday’s action:
Boston Celtics vs. Orlando Magic odds, spread, over/under
According to WynnBet, the Celtics are 11.5-point favorites against the Magic at home. Orlando is a +500 underdog on the road, with the Cs moneyline set at -700. The over/under for the game has been placed at 216 points.
Celtics vs. Magic TV channel
Bally Sports Florida and NBC Sports Boston own the local television rights to this one. NBA League Pass is your best bet if you’re not in-market.
Celtics vs. Magic prediction
Orlando is rolling into this one on a three-game losing streak, and that’s exactly where the Magic want to be. While Franz Wagner is a certifiable slam dunk of a draft pick and Wendell Carter Jr. is making serious strides forward following his trade from Chicago for Nikola Vucevic last March, the Magic are too short on talent to beat a Celtics team that seems like it has momentum.
Boston still hasn’t earned the Houdini’s trust enough to call for a victory at the spread, but after two high-scoring lopsided losses to the Milwaukee Bucks behind them, look for the Magic defense to show some pride en route to an under hit.