Utah Jazz vs Indiana Pacers Prediction & Betting Tips - NBA

Prediction published on 15/01/2024, 05:55  by Devesh Jaganath | Modified on 15/01/2024 at 13:00 in NBA Prediction

The Indiana Pacers will visit the Delta Center to take on the Utah Jazz in the NBA on Monday night. The hosts are 21-20 and ninth in the Western Conference, while the visitors are 23-16 and in sixth place in the Eastern Conference. 

The Indiana Pacers are currently in excellent form, having won nine of their last 11 games. Despite their recent success, they aim to bounce back after a 117-109 road defeat against the Nuggets. Bruce Brown led the team with an impressive performance, scoring 18 points, grabbing 10 rebounds, and dishing out six assists, while Buddy Hield contributed 16 points. Offensively, the Pacers have been outstanding this season, leading the league in points per game with an impressive 125.7, surpassing their opponents by 6.8 points on average. However, in their last three games, they have experienced a slight dip, averaging 115.7 points per outing. The need for high-scoring games arises from their below-average defense, allowing 123.2 points per game, ranking them third-bottom in the league. As they prepare for their upcoming match, the Pacers face uncertainties with the availability of Aaron Nesmith, Jarace Walker, and Tyrese Haliburton.

Meanwhile, the Utah Jazz are currently on a hot streak, securing victory in 11 of their last 13 games. Their impressive form continues, aiming for a sixth consecutive win after a convincing 132-125 triumph over the Lakers on Saturday. Lauri Markkanen played a pivotal role in leading the team with 29 points, nine rebounds, and five assists, while Collin Sexton contributed 27 points to the winning effort. The resurgence of the Jazz aligns with the return of key players Lauri Markkanen and Jordan Clarkson, bringing the team back to a full roster. Offensively, Utah ranks 11th in the league, scoring an average of 116.4 points per game, a figure 6.8 points lower than the typical points allowed by the Pacers. On the defensive end, Utah concedes an average of 118.5 points per game, placing them 23rd in the NBA this season. Interestingly, they tend to exhibit a better defensive performance at home, allowing 5.0 fewer points compared to their away games.