GST Staff

Pacers vs. Celtics Prediction, Odds, Best Prop Bets December 29, 2024

Celtics Look to Regain Form Against Red-Hot Pacers Offense

Game Preview

The Boston Celtics (23-8) and Indiana Pacers (15-17) clash in an intriguing Eastern Conference matchup on Sunday night. The Celtics have been one of the league's elite teams this season, boasting an impressive 74.2% win percentage and a dynamic offense averaging nearly 120 points per game. However, their recent form has been a bit shaky, with just two wins in their last five outings.

Boston's offensive firepower remains potent, scoring 118.2 points per game over the last five while shooting a respectable 45.5% from the field and 32.9% from beyond the arc. But their defensive intensity has wavered, allowing 109.2 points on average during this stretch. The Celtics' rebounding has been a bright spot, grabbing a shade under 50 boards per game to control the glass.

On the other hand, the Pacers have been hovering around .500, but their recent play suggests they're heating up. Indiana has won six of its last ten games, including a 3-2 record over the past five. Their offense has been sizzling, averaging a blistering 127.5 points while shooting 49.2% from the field and 37.8% from three-point range during the last 10 games. The Pacers have also tightened up defensively, holding opponents to just 111.9 points per contest in that span.

While the Celtics have the edge in overall season numbers, the Pacers' recent surge and scorching offensive form could make this an intriguing battle. Boston will need to rediscover its defensive intensity to slow down Indiana's high-powered attack. Whichever team can gain an advantage on the boards and limit turnovers could emerge victorious in what promises to be an entertaining Eastern Conference showdown.