No Irish Luck Needed for Celtics vs Pacers
Celtics vs Pacers Preview
Our Celtics vs Pacers preview looks at which team has the best chance of progressing to the In-Season Tournament semifinals.
Monday’s game between the Celtics vs Pacers pits two of the best Eastern Conference teams, where the Celtics are favored to win.
Today’s NBA games have big implications, so it’ll be an exciting watch.
Celtics vs Pacers
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Tatum Leads Celtics
The Celtics have faced their fair share of challenges, but they’re finding their groove with three consecutive victories. They secured wins against the Hawks, Bulls, and 76ers in preparation for the In-Season Tournament, boosting their confidence, led by Jayson Tatum.
Notably, their performance against the 76ers was impressive, winning 125-119. Tatum’s 21 points on 6/9 shooting, despite an ejection, stood out. The team demonstrated resilience in his absence, so they can cope with their primary scorer off the court.
“I thought I got fouled. I was trying to have a conversation about that play. It was as simple as that,” Tatum said. “I wasn’t that (expletive) mad. Don’t put that narrative out there. … I walked back calmly, I sat in my chair, got some ice. I was not mad. I did not throw anything. I watched the rest of the game. I watched us win.”
The Celtics hold a 8-9-2 record against the spread, with a less-than-ideal 2-6-2 ATS record on the road. That’s the biggest concern as the Pacers lie in waiting, and despite the Celtics being ahead with NBA standings, they’re not rock-solid at covering the spread.
This becomes a cause for concern, particularly when facing the Pacers, who boast a positive ATS record. However, the Celtics have a history of rising to the occasion when the stakes are high.
Our Celtics vs Pacers preview expects the odds for the Celtics to firm, who are currently the -4½ favorites.
They are the more public-favored team, and it’s tough to overlook their superstar roster.
Can the Pacers Score an Upset?
When the Celtics and Pacers last met, it was a one-sided affair. The Pacers faced a staggering 155-104 road loss, a surprising outcome that they aim to bounce back from at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
Despite dropping three of their last five games, they managed to regain momentum with a crucial 144-129 victory against the Miami Heat. This win was much-needed for their confidence, especially after setbacks against the Heat and Trail Blazers.
Our Celtics vs Pacers preview isn’t surprised by the odds for the Pacers, who are home underdogs. While the Celtics are considered the stronger team, the Pacers hold the advantage of playing on their home court, and there’s potential for Tyrese Haliburton to step up and make a significant impact.
Haliburton maintains an impressive average of 27 points per game, showcasing impeccable shooting skills. However, relying on a single player may not be sufficient cover the spread against a team as good as the Celtics.
Defense is key for the Pacers to limit their opponent. Allowing 155 points isn’t good enough for NBA standards, but our NBA predictions expect the Pacers’ defense to be much more secure.
Ultimately, it comes down to defense,” Haliburton said. “We can score against anybody as a group. … But at some point this year, we’re going to have to get some stops to win games. That’s not on the coaching staff. It’s on us as players. And, you know, it starts with me.”
Obi Toppin is a game time decision. His three-point shooting is needed to help them spread the floor, and the former New York Knick was red hot in a losing effort to the Heat last week.
Class Prevails with Celtics
The Celtics have too much playoff experience for the Pacers to handle, and that should be the difference.
Last year’s NBA finalists have much more big game experience than any Pacers player, and that’s invaluable for the In-Season Tournament.
We expect the visitors to jump on the Pacers early and never look back. They have a wealth of shooting talent, and they’re a good defensive team, so the likes of Haliburton could be kept to under his average.
We’re happy with the -5½ line, which would have been around -7½ if the Celtics were playing at TD Garden.
Celtics vs Pacers Preview
For NBA betting odds,analysis and more, visit Point Spreads Sports Magazine.
