NFL Pickwatch - Boston Celtics at Indiana Pacers Player Props, Picks and Predictions

Boston Celtics at Indiana Pacers Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 10/30/2024 7:00 PM EST

We have your Boston Celtics at Indiana Pacers prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Boston Celtics hit the road to face the Indiana Pacers.

Boston Celtics at Indiana Pacers Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: Boston Celtics -250 (ESPN BET) / Indiana Pacers +220 (FanDuel)
Best Spread Odds: 7.0 - Boston Celtics -105 (Caesars) / Indiana Pacers -115 (Caesars)
Best Total Odds: 235.0 - Under -112 (BetRivers) / 234.5 - Over -110 (bet365)

Game Info

Date: 10/30/2024
Time: 7:00 PM EST
Location: Gainbridge Fieldhouse (Indianapolis, IN)
TV: ESPN

Historic Head-to-Head Stats and Analysis

Over the past two seasons, the Boston Celtics and Indiana Pacers have faced off nine times, with the Celtics securing victory in seven of those encounters, while the Pacers managed to win twice. The home team has generally had the upper hand, winning six of the nine games, while the visiting team claimed victory in three instances. When it comes to covering the spread, the Pacers have been more successful, achieving this feat in six games compared to the Celtics' three. In terms of scoring trends, the games have gone over the set total six times, while staying under on three occasions. These matchups have been characterized by a mix of high-scoring affairs and defensive battles, with both teams showing the ability to win both at home and on the road.

The most recent game between these two teams took place on May 27, 2024, during the playoffs, where the Boston Celtics emerged victorious with a narrow 105-102 win over the Indiana Pacers. Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with 26 points, while Jaylen Brown contributed 29 points, including a crucial shot to tie the game late in the fourth quarter. The Celtics shot 44.9% from the field and 31.8% from beyond the arc. On the other hand, the Pacers were led by Andrew Nembhard, who scored 24 points, and they shot 46.0% overall and 34.5% from three-point range. Despite the Pacers' slight edge in rebounding, with 47 rebounds to the Celtics' 44, the Celtics managed to secure the win. Both teams had a similar number of turnovers, with the Celtics committing 13 and the Pacers 14, in what was a closely contested and physical game.

As the Celtics and Pacers prepare to face each other again on October 30, 2024, the historical data suggests a competitive matchup. The Celtics have had the upper hand in recent meetings, but the Pacers have shown resilience, particularly in covering the spread. With both teams having experienced changes in their rosters and strategies over the past two seasons, this upcoming game promises to be another intriguing chapter in their ongoing rivalry. The Celtics will look to continue their dominance, while the Pacers aim to leverage their ability to cover the spread and potentially secure a win on their home court.

Boston Celtics at Indiana Pacers Preview

The Boston Celtics, reigning NBA champions, are off to a blistering start this season, boasting a perfect 4-0 record as they head into their matchup against the Indiana Pacers. The Celtics have been dominant, leading the league in scoring with an impressive 124.3 points per game and showcasing their prowess from beyond the arc with a 42.8% three-point shooting accuracy. Their ability to maintain possession, committing the fewest turnovers in the league at 10.5 per game, has been a key factor in their early success. Jayson Tatum, a five-time All-Star, has been instrumental in this run, averaging 28.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game. Despite a slight dip in his rebounding numbers compared to last season, Tatum's scoring ability remains a constant threat, and he is expected to exploit the Pacers' interior weaknesses, especially with James Wiseman absent from Indiana's lineup.

On the other hand, the Indiana Pacers have struggled to find their rhythm, entering this contest with a 1-3 record. Their defense has been porous, particularly under head coach Rick Carlisle, as they rank in the bottom 10 for opponent points per game. The absence of Wiseman has left a noticeable gap in their interior defense, allowing opponents to average 56.8 rebounds per game against them. Tyrese Haliburton, typically a key playmaker for the Pacers, has been in a shooting slump, averaging just 5.3 assists per game, which is below his usual standards. The Pacers' recent loss to the Orlando Magic, where they allowed Paolo Banchero to score 50 points, highlights their defensive vulnerabilities.

Despite these challenges, the Pacers have shown resilience in past matchups against the Celtics, particularly in covering the spread. However, with Myles Turner potentially sidelined due to an ankle injury, the Pacers' task becomes even more daunting. The Celtics' depth, bolstered by the expected return of sharpshooter Sam Hauser, provides them with a significant advantage. Hauser's presence allows Boston to maintain their offensive spacing and defensive versatility throughout the game. As the Celtics aim to extend their unbeaten streak, the Pacers will need a standout performance from their roster to counter Boston's high-octane offense and relentless defensive pressure.

Boston Celtics at Indiana Pacers Pick: Boston Celtics Moneyline

The Boston Celtics are entering this matchup against the Indiana Pacers with a perfect 4-0 record, showcasing their dominance early in the season. As the reigning NBA champions, the Celtics have continued their winning ways, leading the league in scoring with an impressive 124.3 points per game and demonstrating exceptional three-point shooting accuracy at 42.8%. Their ability to maintain possession, committing the fewest turnovers in the league at 10.5 per game, has been a cornerstone of their success. Jayson Tatum, a pivotal figure in the Celtics' lineup, is averaging 28.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game, making him a constant threat on the court. His scoring prowess is expected to exploit the Pacers' interior weaknesses, especially with the absence of James Wiseman, which has left a significant gap in Indiana's defense.

Conversely, the Indiana Pacers have struggled to find their footing this season, entering the game with a 1-3 record. Their defense has been a major concern, ranking in the bottom 10 for opponent points per game under head coach Rick Carlisle. The absence of Wiseman has exacerbated their defensive vulnerabilities, allowing opponents to average 56.8 rebounds per game against them. Tyrese Haliburton, a key playmaker for the Pacers, is currently in a shooting slump, averaging just 5.3 assists per game, which is below his usual performance. The Pacers' recent loss to the Orlando Magic, where they allowed Paolo Banchero to score 50 points, underscores their defensive challenges.

Despite the Pacers' ability to cover the spread in past matchups against the Celtics, the current circumstances suggest a different outcome. With Myles Turner potentially sidelined due to an ankle injury, the Pacers face an uphill battle. The Celtics' depth, bolstered by the expected return of sharpshooter Sam Hauser, provides them with a significant advantage. Hauser's presence enhances Boston's offensive spacing and defensive versatility, making them a formidable opponent. Given the Celtics' current form and the Pacers' struggles, the pick is for the Boston Celtics to secure a victory on the moneyline, continuing their unbeaten streak and further solidifying their status as one of the top teams in the league.

Boston Celtics at Indiana Pacers Top Player Prop Picks

Jayson Tatum Over 8.5 Rebounds -122 (FanDuel)

Jayson Tatum has been a dominant force for the Boston Celtics this season, averaging 28.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game. While his rebounding numbers are slightly down from last season, the matchup against the Indiana Pacers presents a prime opportunity for Tatum to exceed his current average. The Pacers have struggled defensively, particularly in the paint, allowing opponents to average 56.8 rebounds per game. With James Wiseman absent, Indiana's interior defense is vulnerable, making it an ideal scenario for Tatum to capitalize on the boards. Historically, Tatum has performed well against the Pacers, clearing the 8.5 rebounds line in 3 of 4 meetings last season. Given the Pacers' current defensive struggles and Tatum's ability to exploit such weaknesses, betting on Tatum to go over 8.5 rebounds is a strong play.

Jaylen Brown Over 2.5 Turnovers -125 (Caesars)

Jaylen Brown has been a key contributor to the Celtics' early success, but his aggressive style of play often leads to turnovers. This season, Brown has been averaging 1.5 steals per game, showcasing his defensive prowess, but his offensive game has also seen him commit turnovers. The Pacers' defense, while porous, has been able to force turnovers, as evidenced by their ability to cover the spread in past matchups against the Celtics. Brown's history against Indiana further supports this prop, as he has recorded multiple turnovers in previous encounters. With the Pacers likely to focus on disrupting Boston's offensive flow, Brown's tendency to turn the ball over makes the over 2.5 turnovers a compelling bet.

Pascal Siakam Over 21.5 Points -105 (DraftKings)

Pascal Siakam has been a bright spot for the Indiana Pacers, leading the team with 18.5 points per game. Despite the Pacers' struggles, Siakam's offensive capabilities have been on full display, particularly in recent games where he has consistently scored in double figures. With Tyrese Haliburton in a shooting slump, Siakam has taken on a larger offensive role, which is reflected in his recent performances, including a season-high 26 points. The Celtics' defense, while formidable, will have to contend with Siakam's ability to score both inside and from beyond the arc. Given his current form and the increased scoring opportunities due to Haliburton's struggles, Siakam is well-positioned to exceed the 21.5 points line, making this a strong prop bet.