The "trade" still conjures debate, the fact is Luke Doncic is with the Lakers and they're winning, in fact eight in a row into TD Garden vs. the old enemy tonight. Interestingly, it was Anthony Davis who starred in LA's earlier 117-96 cruise past the Celtics at Crypto.com back on January 23, before the trade and the recent Lakers uptick. The Lake Show has been mostly at home (the last six) in this win surge, but did win at Portland and Denver to begin this latest uptick two weeks ago. There is another angle here, however, as LA is also 8-1 under since Doncic arrived, the only over thanks to a Pelicans side that hardly played defense last Tuesday in LA. Play Lakers-Celtics Under

The Lakers play at Boston and have won eight in a row and 18 of their last 21 games. Luka Doncic has made a huge difference in the Lakers' outlook because he's also inspired 40-year-old LeBron James to be in his prime again. Two great players pumping each other up to their highest levels. Thanks, Dallas. Boston has a better road record than they do at home and has won three in a row since losing to the Pistons and the Cavaliers. Lakers.

Lakers lead the NBA the last 10 games, allowing 106.2/G. Celtics are second at 106.4. Lakers tailor their D game plan to the opponent and JJ Reddick has had some secret sauce going. They will have a plan for Tatum. Lakers bring the hustle for every big game. They are under in 8 of their last 9. Only one of those gams produced a total above this number - a blowout of lowly New Orleans. Defense wins championships and this will have a NBA Finals type feel.