Pacers Sitting in 4th… Is that Spot Ideal?
The Pacers are currently fourth in the East and sit two games behind the Knicks and three games ahead of the Bucks with three games to play. It is highly likely that the Pacers will land in that fourth place spot as the Knicks face the Pistons, Cavs, and Nets to closeout the regular season. That actually may be ideal for Indiana. Even though the Pacers will more than likely face the Bucks in the first round, the silver lining in this situation is avoiding the defending champion Celtics, who are favored to win the East.
The Cavs have clinched home court advantage through the Eastern Conference Playoffs. This is a potential second round matchup so it is not a surprise to see the Cavs sitting key players as the upside of hopefully capturing home court throughout the playoffs is negated by the injury risk. The Cavs are focused on getting as healthy as possible and making a deep run in the postseason. Many “experts” agree that the toughest test for the Cavs could come in the Eastern Conference Finals against the Celtics if both teams make it.
NBA Betting:
Cleveland Cavs vs Indiana Pacers
Spread**
Cavs +9.5 (-108) WINNER
Pacers -9.5 (-108)
Total
Over 234.5 (-108)
Under 234.5 (-108) WINNER
Moneyline
Cavs (+373)
Pacers (-457) WINNER
Player Points
Pascal Siakam Under 19.5 (-120)
Myles Turner Under 16.5 (-104)
Tyrese Haliburton Over 16.5 (-122)
Bennedict Mathurin Under 13.5 (-122)
Aaron Nesmith Over 11.5 (-118)
Obi Toppin Under 10.5 (-125)
Andrew Nembhard Under 9.5 (-104)
T.J. McConnell Under 8.5 (-130)
Double Result
Pacers / Pacers (-210)
Cavs / Pacers (+500) WINNER
Cavs / Cavs (+550)
Pacers / Cavs (+950)
Tie / Pacers (+3000)
Tie / Cavs (+7500)
**The line moved from Cavs +10 to +9.5 within the last hour.
