Indiana Pacers (10-11) vs. Los Angeles Lakers (13-7)
Indiana Pacers vs. Los Angeles Lakers December 9, 2023 – The Indiana Pacers face off against the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday in the NBA In-Season Tournament Championship game. The Pacers have surprised some by making it this far, while the Lakers were expected to be contenders. This matchup provides an interesting contrast of styles and some great betting opportunities. For those looking to capitalize on the excitement, consider checking out the best professional basketball gambling app for the latest odds, trends, analysis, and free NBA predictions. Read on for a full game preview with insights that could give you an edge in your basketball wagers.
Indiana Pacers vs. Los Angeles Lakers December 9, 2023 Game Info
When: | Saturday, December 9, 8:30 PM ET |
Where: | T-Mobile Arena |
TV: | ABC |
Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Tyrese Haliburton (PG) vs. LeBron James (SF)
Tyrese Haliburton has taken his game to an All-Star level in his third NBA season, emerging as the Pacers’ undisputed leader. He’s posting 26.9 points and an incredible 12.1 assists per game with strong shooting splits. His court vision and playmaking make Indiana dangerous. However, his defense remains a work in progress. Against LeBron and the Lakers, containing dribble penetration could be a challenge.
LeBron James continues to defy father time, playing at an MVP level in his 20th season. He’s delivering 25 points, 7.5 rebounds and 6.6 assists per game on efficient 48% shooting. His basketball IQ and well-rounded contributions lift the Lakers nightly. While not the perimeter defender he once was, LeBron’s size, strength and anticipation still pose problems. Slowing down Haliburton off the dribble presents a difficult assignment.
This marquee matchup pits Haliburton’s speed and passing against LeBron’s power and control. Both are the engines driving their team’s offense and can take over games. With the championship on the line, the player who shines brightest could lead their team to glory.
Pacers Offensive Firepower
The Pacers have been surprisingly potent offensively, ranking 8th with 115 points per 100 possessions. Haliburton initiates the attack and has capable finishers like Buddy Hield (17.9 ppg) and Myles Turner (17.4 ppg). Indiana pushes pace, currently 6th in fast break points, while shooting an efficient 51% from the field. They excel moving the ball tallying the NBA’s 4th most assists. This balanced attack tests defenses, especially with Haliburton’s dribble penetration creating open looks.
Lakers Dominant Defense
Frank Vogel’s squad ranks 3rd in defensive rating allowing just 108 points per 100 possessions. The interior combo of Anthony Davis and Damian Jones deters opponents at the rim. On the wings, LeBron provides savvy disruption while Lonnie Walker’s athleticism poses problems. LA forces turnovers, already inducing 326 this year, 4th most leaguewide. This aggressive pressure could unsettle Indiana. Slowing the pace and limiting fast break opportunities are keys to containing the Pacers.
NBA Betting Odds: Los Angeles Lakers -175, Over/Under: 240.5
Despite injuries to key depth pieces, oddsmakers still view LA as 4-point favorites. With stars LeBron and AD healthy alongside the league’s 3rd stingiest defense, it’s understandable. However, betting markets continue to underestimate these feisty Pacers led by Haliburton’s career-best play. There is likely some value backing Indiana to cover as underdogs. The high total also warrants a look towards the over in what sets up as an intriguing clash of styles and stars.
Indiana Pacers Betting Trends
Indiana Pacers are 3-2 in their last 5 games.
The Indiana Pacers are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread
Indiana Pacers are 5-3 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 2 of Pacers’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 9 of Pacers’ 12 last games at home
Los Angeles Lakers Betting Trends
Los Angeles Lakers are 4-1 in their last 5 games.
The Los Angeles Lakers are 4-1 in their last 5 games against the spread
Los Angeles Lakers are 5-6 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 2 of Lakers’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 3 of Lakers’ 12 last games at home
Indiana Pacers vs. Los Angeles Lakers Betting Picks
Considering the stats and trends, this game promises to be closely contested. The Pacers’ offensive might, led by Haliburton, will challenge the Lakers’ balanced approach. However, the experience and leadership of LeBron James could be the deciding factor. The Lakers, with their slightly better record and balanced play, seem to be the safer bet.
When considering prop bets, look towards individual performances, particularly the points and assists for Haliburton and James. For the over/under, the trends suggest leaning towards the OVER, given both teams’ scoring abilities. Keep an eye on USA Sportsbook for the latest odds and betting trends as the game approaches.