Zach Beeker/NBAE via Getty Images

The Oklahoma City Thunder tip off against the Boston Celtics tonight at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts at 7:30pm EST.

The Celtics have been the much better team so far this season and come into the matchup on a six game win streak, bringing their record to 10-3. They have been one of the more balanced teams in the NBA on offense and defense, and they look to continue their dominance against Oklahoma City tonight. The Thunder have not had the same type of success this season, but they have won their last two and have had the hottest offense in the NBA over the last three games, scoring 132, 132, and 145 points respectively. Prior to this stretch, they haven’t had a game scoring over 118. On the flip side of this, they struggle immensely on defense, giving up at least 135 on two of those three games.

How The Celtics Can Win:

The Celtics can win if they can keep that balance of offense and defense and have all guys firing on both sides of the ball. The Thunder pose as a matchup that will make life pretty difficult, and the Celtics need to be able to control this game from start to finish. They have found their groove at home and look to continue it. 

How The Thunder Can Win:

The Thunder can win if they can continue this offensive dominance into Boston. The fate of the Thunder’s offense relies on whether or not Shai Gilgeous-Alexander can continue his dominance. He’s scored at least 33 points in six of his last eight games and has been the focal point of this enjoyable and trendy Thunder team. If he is clicking, then it is difficult for any team to perform well on defense. 

Prediction: Boston Celtics 118, Oklahoma City Thunder 112

Ultimately, Boston is the clear better team and should win, but the Thunder should keep this game competitive the whole way through.