This New Year’s Eve, the NBA delivers an action-packed slate of games to close out 2024. Headlining the day are three must-watch matchups: the Raptors take on the Celtics in Boston, the Bucks face the Pacers in Indianapolis, and the Timberwolves battle the Thunder in Oklahoma City. With star power and high stakes, these games offer exciting storylines and prime betting opportunities to ring in the new year. Let’s break down the key matchups and best bets!
Pascal Siakam Over 18.5 Points -122 via FanDuel
Milwaukee Bucks @ Indiana Pacers – 3:00 PM EST, Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, IN
Pascal Siakam has surpassed this line in seven of his last 10 games. This is a home game and projected to be competitive which should keep Siakam heavily involved offensively. Siakam’s ability to attack the basket and create scoring opportunities aligns well against a Bucks team that has struggled with defensive consistency, particularly with Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard managing recent absences. Expect Siakam to capitalize on his matchup and deliver another strong performance, making over 18.5 points an easy play.
Payton Pritchard Over 14.5 Points +100 via FanDuel
Toronto Raptors @ Boston Celtics – 3:00 PM EST, TD Garden, Boston, MA
Payton Pritchard is in an excellent position to surpass 14.5 points against the Toronto Raptors. The Celtics are heavy 17-point favorites which should lead to extended minutes for Pritchard. He has demonstrated his ability to produce when given the minutes, averaging 13.4 points over his last 10 games and recently notching 18 points and 21 points in back to back games against Indiana. Boston’s offensive firepower (119.5 points per game) combined with Toronto’s defensive struggles (allowing 124.8 points per game over their last 10 contests) provides an ideal environment for Pritchard to excel. Toronto’s four-game road losing streak and their 0-10 record in their last 10 games only add to the likelihood of a blowout. With Boston missing key players like Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porziņģis, Pritchard should see plenty of opportunities.
Anthony Edwards Over 22.5 Points -108 via FanDuel
Minnesota Timberwolves @ Oklahoma City Thunder – 9:00 PM EST, Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, OK
Anthony Edwards has been a consistent offensive force for the Timberwolves, averaging 24.9 points per game this season. With Minnesota riding a three-game win streak, Edwards will be key to keeping the momentum going. Especially against a Thunder team that excels in transition and thrives on disrupting offensive flow. The Timberwolves’ 109.3 points per game significantly outpace the Thunder’s stout defense, which allows just 103.3 points per contest. However, Oklahoma City’s up-tempo style creates additional scoring opportunities which Edwards can exploit. The absence of key Thunder defenders such as Chet Holmgren and Alex Caruso further tilts the scales in his favor. Edwards thrives in competitive matchups, and with the Thunder offense Minnesota will need Edwards to deliver a big scoring performance to keep pace. A 23+ point outing feels well within reach.