NBA Xmas: Greg Frank picks Celtics vs Raptors in a game without Pascal Siakam and Marc Gasol

1-0 Monday, 52-52-1 overall.

Celtics (-3) @ Raptors (212.5)

Pick: Under 212.5

Toronto is going to be without Pascal Siakam and Marc Gasol on Christmas Day on its home floor. However, at three, this number indicates we’re going to still see a competitive game. Rather than run to the window with the Celtics, I’d much sooner play the game under the total. Boston has the best under record in the East at 16-11 and this figures to be a playoff atmosphere in Toronto. In a game in which Siakam scored 33 points earlier this season in Boston, the Raptors only totaled 106. I’d be surprised if they got to that number again on Wednesday but do think they could muck this one up enough to still have a chance to win it. Therefore, the under makes the most sense in the first game.

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