The Indiana Pacers’ rollercoaster ride this season continues, as the team has now lost three straight contests after a controversial no-call late in the game hoisted the Atlanta Hawks past the Blue and Gold on Wednesday, sinking them to a 9-15 record.
Despite losing the opening game of their six-game homestand, the Pacers will have another crack to gain positive momentum as they play hosts to the Miami Heat which, while pegged as one of the East’s most dangerous teams, will banner a shorthanded lineup. Indiana, which has already defeated them in their lone meeting this season, will have a bigger cushion to play with.
On the season, the Pacers are 6-5 at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse and 5-11 against the East while the Heat are 7-6 on the road and 7-4 against conference foes. Indiana ranks 17th in offensive rating and 12th in defensive rating while Miami sits at ninth and 12th, respectively, on the same departments.
Pacers vs Heat Odds, Spread, Over/Under & Betting Pick
The latest odds from WynnBET (sign up with this link) have the Pacers as -5.5 favorites at home against the visiting Heat. Meanwhile, Indiana is a -220 moneyline favorite while Miami is currently a +185 moneyline underdog.
The over/under for this contest has been set at 206.5. The oddsmakers are anticipating a slugfest between both teams.
Projected Pacers Starting Lineup Tonight
SF: Caris LeVert
PF: Domantas Sabonis
C: Myles Turner
SG: Chris Duarte
PG: Malcolm Brogdon
Pacers Injury Report
TJ McConnell, who injured his wrist on Wednesday, will not suit up against Miami and will reportedly be out for a while. Justin Holiday remains in the health and safety protocols. TJ Warren (left foot) remains out for this game.
Indiana Pacers vs Miami Heat Prediction
Miami is usually a tough cover for Indiana, but the Heat’s makeshift lineups sans their best players will exacerbate their chances against a motivated Pacers team, especially in the frontcourt, where the lack of Bam Adebayo and Jimmy Butler will be as costly as advertised.
Given the Heat’s proclivity for gritty contests, expect this game to a low-scoring affair, as the Pacers’ deliberate offense plays to the cards of Miami’s aggressive half court defense. Still, without much reliable firepower outside of Tyler Herro, Indiana should be able to pull away late and seal the victory to snap their three-game skid.
Pacers 103, Heat 94
Make your pick now on WynnBET.
What channel is the Indiana Pacers game on?
Friday’s game will air on Bally Sports Indiana (Indianapolis) and Bally Sports Sun (Miami) and will tip off at 7 pm ET.
Indiana Pacers vs Miami Heat Live Stream
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Pacers Next Game and Schedule
The Pacers remain at home to continue their homestand against Eastern Conference foes Washington and New York before an interconference matchup with Dallas and Golden State.
Dec. 06 vs Washington
Dec. 08 vs New York
Dec. 10 vs Dallas
Dec. 13 vs Golden State