Bet365 NBA Odds, Betting Preview: Raptors vs 76ers (Dec 22)

Following a home defeat against the Denver Nuggets on Wednesday night, the Toronto Raptors are set to embark on a road trip to Philadelphia for a matchup against the 76ers. Meanwhile, the 76ers enter the contest riding the momentum of a convincing blowout victory over the Western Conference’s top-seeded team, the Minnesota Timberwolves. Eager to extend their current win streak, the 76ers will undoubtedly pose a formidable challenge for the Raptors in the upcoming clash on the road.

Let’s look at the betting odds on both teams for this upcoming matchup.

76ers vs. Raptors odds

76ers Moneyline Odds	-360
Raptors Moneyline Odds	+280
Over/Under	230.5 points (over -110, under -110)
Spread	76ers -8.5 (-110)
Time/Date	Dec. 22, 7:00 p.m. ET
TV	Broadcast: Sportsnet Stream: NBA League Pass (How to watch the NBA in Canada?)

All odds courtesy of

About the Raptors (11-16 SU, 12-14-1 ATS, 13-14 o/u)

In a thrilling contest that saw the Toronto Raptors facing a daunting 21-point deficit at one point, the resilient squad managed to narrow the gap to a mere 7 points with 5 minutes remaining in the fourth quarter. Despite their valiant effort, the Raptors fell short in completing the comeback bid, as the defending champions delivered crucial shots down the stretch, ultimately securing the victory.

Raptors star Scottie Barnes continued to showcase his exceptional skills, registering an impressive double-double with 30 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists, and a block. Barnes demonstrated remarkable efficiency with a shooting percentage of 61.9% (13/21). Following closely in the scoring column was Pascal Siakam, contributing 18 points and 5 rebounds on 43.8% shooting (7/16). Noteworthy was the late-game surge from Precious Achuiwa, who added 13 points to the tally, with 9 of them coming in the crucial fourth quarter. Despite these commendable individual performances, the collective effort fell short of securing the much-needed victory for the Raptors.

As the Raptors prepare for their impending showdown with the 76ers, critical players find themselves confronted by formidable challenges against a defensively adept opponent. Dennis Schroder faces a demanding task as the 76ers allow the 7th least points allowed and rank 7th in the least made three-pointers for point guards. Moreover, Scottie navigates a strategic hurdle with Philadelphia ranking 5th in conceding the most assists to shooting guards. O.G. Anunoby is set to encounter a resilient 76ers defense allowing the 2nd least points to small forwards. In the paint, Jakob Poeltl faces a tough battle as the 76ers allow the 3rd least rebounds allowed to centers.

About the Celtics (19-8 SU, 19-8 ATS, 18-9 o/u)

In a commanding display of skill and teamwork, the 76ers got a decisive victory over the Timberwolves, securing a final score of 127-113. The triumph was fueled by stellar performances from the dynamic duo of Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, both of whom shone brightly on the court.

Joel Embiid, the centrepiece of the 76ers’ dominance, exhibited an outstanding individual showcase, tallying an impressive 51 points and grabbing 12 rebounds. His scoring efficiency was a sight to behold, shooting at a remarkable 68% accuracy with a 17/25 record. Not only a force on the offensive end, but Embiid also made impactful contributions on the defensive side, amassing 2 steals and a crucial block. Tyrese Maxey, displaying his versatility and playmaking prowess, notched an impressive 35 points and distributed 5 assists. Maxey’s scoring efficiency was equally notable, connecting on 50% of his attempts, including 5 successful three-pointers. The dynamic duo of Embiid and Maxey emerged as the driving force behind the victory, combining for over 67% of the team’s total points, showcasing a potent offensive tandem that proved insurmountable for the Timberwolves.

When it comes to facing the Raptors, the 76ers also face critical defensive assignments for key players. In the backcourt, the Raptors’ defence exhibits resilience by ranking 3rd in conceding the least points and the 3rd least made three-pointers to point guards, a crucial test against the 76ers’ talented point guard Maxey. However, the vulnerability arises on the perimeter, particularly against small forwards (SFs), where the Raptors find themselves in the 7th position for allowing the most points, presenting a formidable challenge as they contend with Kelly Oubre Jr.’s offensive prowess. Additionally, the Raptors showcase a mediocre defence in the paint, holding the 14th least points allowed to centers (Cs), a critical factor as they face the dominant presence of Embiid.

Injury Concerns

• Melton (thigh) is questionable for Friday’s game against the Raptors.
• Covington (illness) is probable for Friday’s game against Toronto.
• Batum (hamstring) won’t play in Friday’s game versus the Raptors.
• Porter (foot) is available for Wednesday’s game versus the Hawks but isn’t expected to receive any minutes.
• Koloko (illness) won’t play on Friday against Philadelphia.

Betting Trends

• The 76ers hit the under in their last 3 out of 5 games
• The Raptors hit the under in 3 games in a row
• Both teams hit the under in the two games they’ve played against each other

Player Prop Trends

• Scottie has recorded over 21.5 points in 4 games in a row. He is averaging 20.6 points this season, coming off a 30-point performance. His line is at -110 to score over 21.5 points.
• Embiid has scored over 35.5 points in the last 4 out of 5 games. He is averaging 35.1 points this season, coming off a 51-point performance. His line is at -115 to score over 35.5 points.
• Embiid has grabbed over 11.5 rebounds in 4 games in a row. He is averaging 11.8 rebounds this season. His line is at -130 to record over 11.5 rebounds.

Wagers to Consider

• SGP: Embiid to score over 35.5 points; Scottie to score over 21.5 points: +250. Both of these players are the main stars on their respective teams and have had the hot hand recently, coming off outstanding performances in their last game.
• Under 230.5 Total Points: Both teams cleared the under by a margin in the 2 games played this season and nothing is expected to change.