Boston Celtics
After cooling off from their impressive 11-game winning streak, the Boston Celtics aim to avoid a third consecutive defeat following a 115-109 road loss to the Nuggets on Thursday. Jaylen Brown led the team with an outstanding performance, contributing 41 points, 14 rebounds, and four assists on 16 of 29 shooting. Kristaps Porzingis added 24 points with 12 rebounds, while Jayson Tatum chipped in with 15 points and eight assists. Despite a commendable effort, the Celtics shot 45 percent from the field and 11 of 38 from the 3-point line, engaging in a close contest with the Nuggets until the fourth quarter when the Nuggets secured a 12-point lead.

Phoenix Suns
On the other hand, the Phoenix Suns have maintained decent form, winning four of their last six games overall. They seek a third consecutive win after dominating the Raptors in a 120-113 victory on Thursday. Kevin Durant spearheaded the Suns’ charge with an impressive 35 points on 11 of 19 shooting, supported by Grayson Allen’s 26 points and Bradley Beal’s 20 points and eight assists. As a team, the Suns exhibited efficiency with a 51 percent shooting accuracy from the field and 15 of 35 from the 3-point line. Their strong start with 39 points in the first quarter provided a substantial lead, proving sufficient to withstand a late run from the Raptors.

Team Stats
The Suns boast an impressive record, securing victories in their most recent nine home games against Eastern Conference opponents. Additionally, they have consistently covered the spread in their last nine matchups as underdogs against the Celtics. Notably, each of the Suns’ previous nine games has fallen below the total points line. The Celtics have demonstrated dominance by winning 12 of their last 13 games against Western Conference opponents following a loss. Furthermore, the trend favors the home team, as the Celtics have covered the spread in each of their last five games. In their six most recent road games against Pacific Division opponents, the total points line has consistently been surpassed.

The Celtics might face a shortage in this game, considering Jaylen Brown is listed as questionable, while the Suns continue to miss Josh Okogie and Devin Booker. The Celtics, after experiencing a couple of consecutive losses, could be without Brown in a highly anticipated match against the formidable Suns. Although it’s expected that the Celtics are favored on the road, the Suns have showcased impressive performances in their last two games, and I believe they can maintain the momentum, particularly if Durant delivers another stellar performance.