Can the Pacers avoid going down 3-0? Or will the Celtics run away with this series? They say defense wins championships; if that’s the case, the Pacers are in trouble. With Haliburton questionable the Pacers could have a major issue. With Haliburton, I jump all over this line and the Pacers; without him, the Celtics seem like a safe bet at -7. This is a game you don’t bet until you know Haliburton’s status.
Celtics vs Pacers
Spread: Celtics -7
Moneyline Pacers +220
Moneyline Celtics -270
Over/Under 222.5
These odds were updated at 6 am EST on 05/23/24, coming from Draft Kings.
Our Best Pick: Celtics to Cover
Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum struggled greatly in Game 1 against the Pacers, yet still managed to escape with a victory. Brown responded well in Game 2, scoring 40 points while Tatum has looked uncertain and unstable throughout. It probably won’t matter in terms of the finals series against Indiana but worth keeping an eye on nonetheless.
Derrick White and Jrue Holiday have been the driving force behind Boston’s early lead in this series. Both players have made excellent decisions, rebounded at an exceptional level, assisted on most baskets scored by Boston and have demonstrated strong focus on both ends of the court. I simply cannot praise their efforts enough!
Everyone is drawn to Brown and Tatum because of their impressive point averages, but the real reason the Celtics are championship favorites lies with Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday joining as All-Stars as well as White becoming an All-Star level player.
As Haliburton remains uncertain with a left hamstring injury, be mindful that late in Game 2, Haliburton left and didn’t return.
Haliburton is the motor of Indiana’s offense and his absence would be felt immediately by their opponents, particularly against a Celtics team that attempts over 40% of its shots from 3-point range during postseason play. If Haliburton sits, then expect T.J. McConnell to start instead; which could further compromise Indiana’s spacing and 3-point attempt rate – something Haliburton must continue doing if the Pacers want any chance against such competition as Boston who shoot over 40% from 3-point territory themselves.
The Boston Celtics have amassed an offensive rating of 124.2 through two games of this series and it doesn’t appear that the Pacers can consistently stop them, so they will need to find ways to generate more offense themselves. They have shown the ability to score against halfcourt pressure from Boston; Haliburton even scored with them at halftime of Game 2.
Game 1 saw the Pacers outscore the Celtics in halfcourt scoring but struggled in transition, while Game 2 saw them do an admirable job of setting defense but allowing an incredible 122.4 halfcourt offensive rating from Boston.
No Haliburton bet the Celtics, of he can play take the Pacers and the points. I am making this recommendation as if he won’t play.
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Pacers vs Celtics Moneyline
The Pacers on the moneyline is a great value pick. the problem is I don’t see them winning this game, unless Haliburton plays. There is no value in the Celtic’s money line. If you are looking for the best sportsbook, we’ve got you covered as we break down the
best sports betting app
DraftKings
4.5/5
Tip: Bet Celtics to Cover
Money line value on Pacers
Haliburton status?
Tatum to have a big game
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Pacers vs Celtics Over/Under Analysis
The Over/Under is 222.5 in this game. This is tricky over/under, but I would lean towards the over. I expect the Pacers to score points even without Haliburton but without him the Celtics will score even more.
DraftKings
4.5/5
Tip: Bet the Over 225
Odds favor game in the 100s
Game will be played at a fast pace
Rebounding will be key
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Pacers vs Celtics Spread Analysis
The Pacers are dangerous because they are capable of scoring a lot of points quickly, which makes them a dangerous team. As I have repeatedly said Haliburton is the key. If he plays the spread is slightly too big, if he doesn’t play it should be even bigger.
DraftKings
4.5/5
Tip: Bet the Celtics to Cover
Which team controls the post
Celtics are more experienced
Pacers need to shoot lights out
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Pacers vs Celtics Head-to-Head
The Celtics won all the regular-season games between these two teams. Of course, that means nothing come playoff time, but the Celtics matchup well against the Pacers and have won both games in this series so far. Check out our guide to betting on
NBA Playoff Parlays.
Injuries and Suspensions
Pacers Injury Report
Haliburton- Out
Celtics Injury Report
Porzingis- Out
Kornett- Doubtful
Conclusion
I am assuming that Haliburton will not play, and if that happens I see a dominant Celtics win. Celtics 122 Pacers 104.
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