Pacers vs Celtics game preview

The Indiana Pacers have etched their name as the proud underdogs of this postseason, making an unexpected appearance in the Eastern Conference finals against the Boston Celtics. Central to the Pacers' success has been Tyrese Haliburton, whose leadership at point guard has been nothing short of phenomenal, averaging a double-double with 20.1 points and a remarkable 10.9 assists per game. His court vision and playmaking will be critical in dissecting the Celtics' robust defense. Additionally, the presence of Myles Turner, dominating the paint with an average of 6.9 rebounds per game, must be emphasized for Indiana to contend with Boston's size and skill at both ends of the court. The Pacers will need to leverage their grit and exceptional teamwork to tilt the series in their favor, capitalizing on every opportunity to score and defend with tenacity.

On the other side, the Boston Celtics enter the finals as the season-long favorites, driven by the outstanding performances of Jayson Tatum. Tatum, an omnipresent force for Boston, leads the team in both scoring and rebounding with averages of 26.9 points and 8.1 rebounds per game, showcasing his dual-threat capability to dominate inside the paint and stretch defenses with his perimeter shooting. Additionally, the Celtics' strategic diversity in offense, supported by Derrick White's 5.2 assists per game, enables them to adapt and counter various defensive setups effectively. The team's depth and tactical acumen, combined with their high-caliber talent, make them formidable opponents. To secure their spot in the NBA Finals, the Celtics will need to maintain their defensive intensity and exploit their offensive synchrony to overcome the resilient Pacers.

How to Watch the Pacers vs Celtics

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

Pacers vs Celtics predictions

The Pacers are riding into the Eastern Conference Finals with a chip on their shoulder, and I think Tyrese Haliburton is going to be the X-factor in this series. I'm projecting 22 points and 11 dimes from him in Game 1, and if he can get going, the Pacers have a legitimate shot at stealing one in Boston. Myles Turner is another guy who needs to bring it - I think he's good for 18 points, 9 rebounds, and 2 blocks, which will be crucial in limiting the Celtics' second-chance opportunities.

On the other side, the Celtics are loaded with firepower, and I think Jayson Tatum is going to come out guns blazing. I'm expecting 28 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists from him in Game 1, which is basically his standard operating procedure. Jaylen Brown is another guy who's due for a big game - I think he's good for 23 points, 6 rebounds, and a few clutch plays down the stretch. And let's not forget about Derrick White, who's been a revelation in the playoffs; I think he'll chip in 15 points, 5 assists, and some pesky defense on the Pacers' backcourt.

In the end, I think the Celtics are just too deep and too talented. They'll take Game 1 by 10, and it won't be all that close. The Pacers will hang around for a half, but Boston will pull away in the third quarter and never look back. It's not that the Pacers are bad, it's just that the Celtics are on a mission, and they won't let anyone get in their way.

Boston Celtics injuries

• Xavier Tillman (F): Day-To-Day
• Kristaps Porzingis (C): Out

Indiana Pacers injuries

• Bennedict Mathurin (SG): Out