Indiana Pacers vs. Boston Celtics: Preview & Where to Watch
Get ready for an exciting Eastern Conference clash as the Indiana Pacers host the Boston Celtics at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, IN. This game is set for October 30th, 2024 at 11:00 PM EST.
The Celtics are favored to win this game, with DraftKings Sportsbook giving them a 60.6% win probability against the Pacers' 39.4%.
Team and Player Matchups to Watch
The Pacers will be looking to upset the Celtics, who are coming off a strong start to the season. The Celtics are led by Jayson Tatum, who is averaging a blistering 28 points per game and is a favorite to win the NBA MVP award. The Pacers will need to find a way to slow him down if they want to win.
However, the Pacers have their own offensive firepower. Tyrese Haliburton is a rising star in the league and is averaging 25 points and 10 assists per game. With the absence of Kristaps Porzingis, the Celtics may have some challenges guarding the Pacers' dynamic backcourt.
Key Matchups:
- Tatum vs. Haliburton: This is a battle between two of the league's best young guards. Tatum's explosiveness and scoring prowess will be tested against Haliburton's crafty playmaking.
- Malcolm Brogdon **vs. Marcus Smart: These veteran guards both bring experience and leadership to their respective teams. Brogdon's shooting and Smart's defensive intensity could make this a key factor in the game.
- Myles Turner **vs. Al Horford: This will be a clash of styles as Turner's shot-blocking and Horford's veteran experience will be on display.
Injury Report and Impact
Both teams have key players dealing with injuries. The Pacers will be without Isaiah Jackson, who is day-to-day with a groin injury. His absence could hurt the Pacers' depth in the frontcourt.
The Celtics, however, will be without Kristaps Porzingis, who is recovering from foot surgery and will be out until December. This is a major blow to the Celtics' frontcourt, as Porzingis provides them with a versatile offensive weapon and rim protection.
How to Watch and Listen:
You can watch the Indiana Pacers vs. Boston Celtics game on NBA League Pass or your local regional sports network. You can also listen to the game on the Pacers Radio Network or the Celtics Radio Network.
NBA Streams: Finding the Best Options
For those who want to watch the game online, there are a few options, but remember to always watch NBA games through legal and safe channels.
- NBA League Pass: NBA League Pass is the official streaming service of the NBA. It offers a wide variety of viewing options, including live games, replays, and highlights.
- ESPN: ESPN is another great option to watch NBA games online, as it often broadcasts games live.
- fuboTV: fuboTV is a live TV streaming service that includes a variety of sports channels, including ESPN and NBA League Pass. It offers a free trial, so you can try it out before you commit.
Remember, it's important to avoid illegal streaming services, as they can be dangerous and unreliable. These services may contain malware or viruses, and you could face legal penalties for using them.
Predictions and Talking Points:
The Celtics are a formidable team, even without Porzingis, but the Pacers have the potential to cause an upset. Haliburton's playmaking and the Pacers' improved shooting could be key to a Pacers victory. The Celtics, however, will need to find a way to contain Haliburton and limit the Pacers' shooting.
Here are some talking points to watch for during the game:
- Can the Celtics maintain their strong start without Porzingis?
- Can the Pacers find a way to stop Tatum?
- Will the Pacers' improved shooting be enough to win the game?
This game promises to be an exciting one, so don't miss out on the action!