Celtics vs Pacers game preview

The Boston Celtics charge into the conference finals with considerable momentum, backed by stellar performances and a commanding regular-season record. A key element in their arsenal is Jayson Tatum, who has been a linchpin in Boston's offensive strategies, averaging 26.9 points per game. With his ability to pull up from long-range as well as drive through packed lanes, Tatum’s versatility will be crucial in overcoming the defenses set by Indiana. Equally vital is Derrick White, whose 5.2 assists per game have catalyzed the Celtics' motion offense, ensuring the ball finds its way to optimal scoring positions. The team’s defensive acumen, combined with a deep bench, gives them a fortified stand to challenge Indiana's advances aggressively, making them formidable contenders for clinching the conference finals.

On the other hand, the Indiana Pacers arrive at this critical jun.sre with a mix of tenacity and challenges, particularly surrounding the health of star playmaker Tyrese Haliburton. Haliburton, pivotal to both the scoring and distribution aspects of Indiana’s game with averages of 20.1 points and 10.9 assists per game, faces hamstring soreness, and his day-to-day status could be a significant determinant in the Pacers' strategic executions. Indiana will lean heavily on Myles Turner, not only to hold the fort as the team's leading rebounder (6.9 per game) but also to counter Boston’s offensive threats in the paint. If Haliburton can play near his best, the Pacers could very well dictate the pace and open up the floor, leveraging their quick transitions and perimeter shooting to challenge the defensive prowess of the Celtics.

How to Watch the Celtics vs Pacers

The Celtics vs. Pacers game will be televised on ESPN and is scheduled for Mon 8:00 PM.

Celtics vs Pacers predictions

Here's the write-up:

Jayson Tatum is on a mission to prove he's the best player in the East, and I think he's gonna come out swinging in this one. I've got him dropping 32 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists, leading the Celtics to a dominating performance. Meanwhile, Jaylen Brown is gonna use his lightning-quick speed to get to the rim at will, scoring 23 points on 55% shooting. And don't sleep on Derrick White, who's quietly been one of the most consistent guards in the league - I've got him chipping in 18 points and 7 dimes.

On the other side, Tyrese Haliburton is gonna do his best to keep the Pacers in it, dropping 22 points and 8 assists in a valiant effort. But I think Myles Turner is gonna struggle to contain Tatum and Brown, and his 18 points and 10 rebounds won't be enough to propel the Pacers to victory. Isaiah Jackson is a dark horse to keep an eye on, though - I think he's gonna come off the bench and give the Pacers a much-needed spark, scoring 12 points and grabbing 6 boards in just 15 minutes of action.

In the end, I think the Celtics are just too deep and too talented for the Pacers to hang with. Tatum's gonna will them to a 115-105 win, and the Celtics will be one step closer to clinching the Eastern Conference Finals. The Pacers will put up a good fight, but ultimately, they'll be outgunned by a Celtics team that's firing on all cylinders.

Indiana Pacers injuries

• Tyrese Haliburton (PG): Day-To-Day
• Bennedict Mathurin (SG): Out

Boston Celtics injuries

• Jrue Holiday (PG): Day-To-Day
• Luke Kornet (C): Day-To-Day
• Kristaps Porzingis (C): Out