Indiana Pacers vs Cleveland Cavaliers Prediction & Betting Tips - NBA

Prediction published on 18/03/2024, 06:30  by Devesh Jaganath | Modified on 18/03/2024 at 11:00 in NBA Prediction

The Indiana Pacers will play host to the Cleveland Cavaliers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in the NBA on Monday night. The hosts are 38-30 and sixth in the Eastern Conference, while the visitors are 42-25 and third in the Conference standings. 

The Cleveland Cavaliers have lost four of their last six games overall and need a better performance here after suffering a 117-103 road loss to the Rockets on Saturday. Caris LeVert led the team with 21 points and seven assists off the bench, while Georges Niang contributed 14 points. Cleveland ranks 18th in the NBA for offense, averaging 113.6 points per game, while Indiana sits at the 28th spot for defense, allowing 121.1 points. At home, Cleveland scores an average of 114.5 points per game, 1.9 more than their away average of 112.6. Despite conceding 117 points in their last outing, Cleveland have generally performed well defensively this season, allowing 109.6 points per game, ranking fifth in the NBA. Donovan Mitchell and Max Strus have been ruled out of the upcoming game, while Dean Wade is listed as doubtful.

The Indiana Pacers have been performing decently, winning four of their last six games overall. They’ll aim to continue their momentum after defeating the struggling Nets in a 121-100 home victory on Saturday. Pascal Siakam led the team with 28 points, 11 rebounds, and four assists, while Aaron Nesmith contributed 16 points. The Pacers score an average of 123.1 points per game, which is 13.5 points more than the Cavaliers allow (109.6). They currently hold the title of the highest-scoring team in the NBA this season. However, defensively, they have faced challenges, allowing an average of 121.1 points per game, ranking third-worst in the league. They have shown slightly better defensive performance at home, where they concede 120.5 points per game, compared to away games where opponents score 121.8 per game. Doug McDermott is questionable for the upcoming game due to an ankle injury.