Warriors vs. Celtics Preview and Prediction

The Golden State Warriors look to extend their NBA record start to the season with a win over the Boston Celtics on Friday night. The Warriors have started the season with 23 straight wins and the Pacers represent one of their toughest challenges yet. The Celtics are 13-9 and are on a two-game win streak. Can Boston pull off the upset tonight? Here's our preview and prediction. 

Game Info:

When: 7:30 p.m. EST
Where: TD Garden, Boston, MA
Spread: Warriors By 5.5

What's At Stake: 

The Warriors are looking to win their 28th straight game dating back to last season, which would pass the 2012-13 Miami Heat for the second longest streak in NBA history. Boston has won two games in a row and four of their last five games. This game won't make or break anyone's season, but with the Warriors undefeated still, it carries added weight. 

What They're Saying About The Boston Celtics: 

Blueprint: after two close losses last season, the Celtics now have what it takes to beat the Warriors

Brad Stevens has stopped Steph Curry before, but can he do it again?

Brad Stevens, Celtics want to avoid being part of Steph Curry's fairy tale

What They're Saying About The Golden State Warriors:

8 Things That Have Happened Since The Warriors Have Lost

Golden State Warriors Aren't Missing David Lee

Curry Wants To Be Better Than Jordan

Key To The Game: 

Can Boston's bench take advantage of an injured Warriors' squad? The Celtics have one of the best bench units in the NBA, headined by point guard Isaiah Thomas (21 ppg, 6.3 apg), while Golden State could be without two starters in Klay Thompson and Harrison Barnes as they try to recover from ankle injuries. The Warriors' depth could be a problem if both can't play, as well as backup shooting guard Leandro Barbosa (illness) and they're already playing on tired legs as this is the sixth game of a seven-game road trip. Boston's depth will be key in running past the depleted Warriors, and if their bench can produce at a high level, they might pull off the upset.

Prediction: Warriors Win 114-106

There's plenty of scoring in this one as both teams like to get up and down the court, and it should be close throughout. However, the Warriors have shown no signs of slowing down, and should pull away in the fourth quarter behind the play of Stephen Curry.