Nets' last-ranked offense visits Celtics' fourth-ranked defense

The Brooklyn Nets (20-62), owners of last season's lowest-rated offense, visit the Boston Celtics (56-26), whose defense ranked fourth, on Tuesday, October 27, in a game that tips off at 7:30 PM ET at TD Garden.

The records and ratings here are from last season, with this season's rosters.

Brooklyn scored 106.9 points per 100 possessions, 30th in the league, and its effective field goal percentage of 52 was also last. Boston held opponents to 52.3, fourth best, so the Nets' shots should get little help.

The other side tilts the same way. The Celtics rated second on offense at 118.1, and the Nets' defense allowed a 57.1 effective field goal percentage, 28th in the league. Boston also gave the ball away on 10.5% of its possessions, the lowest rate in the league, which leaves Brooklyn few extra chances.

Pace may cut the other way. Boston played the slowest game in the league at 97.1 possessions, and Brooklyn was 26th at 98.8, so neither team should push the tempo.

Michael Porter Jr. led Brooklyn with 24.2 points and 7.1 rebounds a game, and Julius Randle added five assists. For Boston, Paul George averaged 17.3 points in 37 games, and Derrick White handed out 5.4 assists.

The Nets have five players out. Ben Saraf (20.3 minutes a game) and Drake Powell (21 minutes) hold the biggest roles, and Joshua Jefferson and Grant Nelson are also out. Tyler Bilodeau returns Friday, October 30. Boston is without Devin Carter until Sunday, November 8.

The Nets have lost three straight, the latest 136-109 to Indiana. Boston beat Chicago 134-99 in its last game.

Sportsbooks' prices give the Celtics an 82% chance to win. Keel's projection, built from the players available, gives them 72% and a margin of 7.3 points.