Celtics vs Pacers odds, prediction: 2024 NBA Eastern Conference finals picks

The Boston Celtics are poised to continue their dominant run through the 2024 NBA Playoffs as they host the Indiana Pacers in Game 1 of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals. Tipoff is set for 8 p.m. ET on Tuesday at TD Garden. The top-seeded Celtics are entering this game after five full days of rest following a commanding 4-1 series win over the Cleveland Cavaliers in the conference semifinals. On the other hand, the No. 6-seeded Pacers are coming off a thrilling series victory, with a decisive 130-109 road win over the New York Knicks on Sunday, allowing them to clinch their semifinal series 4-3 and advance to the Eastern Conference Finals. Both teams face key injuries, with Kristaps Porzingis (calf) out for Boston and Bennedict Mathurin (shoulder) out for Indiana.

Boston Celtics: Ready to Dominate

Rest and Preparation

The Celtics have a significant advantage with five days of rest, allowing them to recover and prepare strategically for their matchup against the Pacers. This rest period is crucial as it helps players recuperate from minor injuries and fatigue, ensuring they are in peak condition for Game 1.

Star Performers: Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown

The dynamic duo of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown has been phenomenal throughout the playoffs. They are averaging a combined 47.4 points, 17 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game. Their performances have been pivotal in the Celtics’ journey to the Eastern Conference Finals. Tatum’s scoring ability and Brown’s versatility on both ends of the court make them a formidable pair.

Defensive Prowess

Boston’s defense has been a cornerstone of their success. In their 113-98 closeout win against the Cavaliers, the Celtics showcased their defensive strength by holding Cleveland to just 98 points and dominating the boards with a 43-28 rebounding advantage. This defensive tenacity will be crucial in containing the high-scoring Pacers.

Betting Favorites

Boston is a 9.5-point favorite in this matchup, with the over/under for total points scored set at 222, according to the latest odds via SportsLine consensus. The Celtics have a strong track record against the spread, especially when playing on four or more days of rest, boasting a 3-0-1 record.

Indiana Pacers: Underdogs with Momentum

Offensive Firepower

The Pacers were the highest-scoring team in the NBA during the regular season, averaging an impressive 123.3 points per game, ranking sixth all-time in NBA history. Their offense is led by Tyrese Haliburton, who delivered a stellar performance in Game 7 against the Knicks with 26 points. The Pacers’ ability to score efficiently will be crucial against Boston’s staunch defense.

Historic Shooting Performance

In their series-clinching win over New York, the Pacers set an NBA playoff record for field goal shooting at 67.1%, even after cooling off from an astonishing 82% in the first half. This shooting efficiency is a testament to their offensive prowess and will be a key factor in their strategy against the Celtics.

Depth and Versatility

Indiana’s depth was on full display in their win over the Knicks, with all five starters scoring at least 17 points. Andrew Nembhard and Pascal Siakam each contributed 20 points, showcasing the team’s balanced scoring attack. This depth will be vital as they look to match up against Boston’s talented roster.

Betting Underdogs

Despite their impressive performance, the Pacers are underdogs with a money line of +341. However, they have a solid record against the spread as underdogs, going 25-17-2 this season. Their ability to exceed expectations makes them a dangerous opponent for the Celtics.

Key Factors and Predictions

Injury Impact

The absence of Kristaps Porzingis for Boston and Bennedict Mathurin for Indiana could significantly impact both teams’ strategies. Porzingis’ absence may affect Boston’s interior defense and rebounding, while Mathurin’s injury could limit Indiana’s scoring options.

SportsLine Projection Model

The SportsLine Projection Model, which simulates every NBA game 10,000 times, has a proven track record, returning well over $10,000 in profit for $100 players on its top-rated NBA picks over the past five-plus seasons. Entering the conference finals, the model is on a 94-61 roll on all top-rated NBA picks this season, returning more than $2,800. The model has set its sights on Celtics vs. Pacers and has locked in its picks and predictions.

Game 1 Expectations

According to the SportsLine model, the game is expected to be high-scoring, with a projection of 229 combined points, leaning towards the over on the total. The model also suggests that one side of the spread hits more than 50% of the time. This prediction underscores the potential for an exciting and competitive gam

As the Boston Celtics and Indiana Pacers prepare to clash in Game 1 of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals, all eyes will be on the Celtics to see if they can maintain their dominant playoff run. With a well-rested team, a dynamic duo in Tatum and Brown, and a strong defensive foundation, Boston looks poised to continue their success. However, the Pacers, with their high-scoring offense and recent momentum, cannot be underestimated. This matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams vying for a spot in the NBA Finals.

For more insights and predictions, you can visit SportsLine to see which side of the Pacers vs. Celtics spread to jump on. With the advanced model returning significant profits this season, following their advice could provide valuable betting insights.