Charlotte (19-56) at Indiana (44-31)
- When: Apr 2 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- TV: FDSIN
NBA Betting Preview: Hornets vs Pacers – Odds, Predictions & Best Bets
Spread: Indiana -15.5 | Total: 222.0
The Indiana Pacers look to keep their postseason momentum rolling when they host the struggling Charlotte Hornets on Wednesday night in a game featuring one of the biggest betting lines of the NBA week. Indiana is laying 15.5 points as a heavy home favorite, with the total set at 222.0.
Indiana Pacers Outlook & Prediction
Riding a red-hot 7-2 stretch, the Pacers (44-31) have surged into solid position as the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference. Their latest win came in comeback fashion, overcoming a 16-point deficit to edge out the Kings 111-109 on Monday. Even with key players like Myles Turner and Bennedict Mathurin sidelined, Indiana’s depth shined — particularly through Obi Toppin and Jarace Walker, who combined for 34 points and 8 triples off the bench.
Tyrese Haliburton continues to be the engine for Indiana’s offense, delivering 18 points and 11 assists in the win, including the go-ahead bucket in crunch time. This team thrives on pace, ball movement, and second-unit contributions, and their ability to rally against playoff-caliber teams suggests they won’t take a young Hornets squad lightly.
Given Indiana’s playoff push and how seriously they’re treating each matchup down the stretch, expect another professional effort here. They’ve covered frequently in recent games and should overwhelm Charlotte with offensive firepower.
Best Bet: Indiana -15.5
Score Prediction: Pacers 119, Hornets 100
Charlotte Hornets Outlook & Prediction
Charlotte (19-56) comes into this matchup after snapping a five-game losing streak with a 110-106 win over Utah. Miles Bridges led the way with 26 points, 10 boards, and 8 assists in a strong all-around performance. While the Hornets have been severely hampered by injuries — including season-ending setbacks to LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller — they’ve used this time to evaluate young talent.
Rookies like Nick Smith Jr., Tidjane Salaun, and KJ Simpson have all shown flashes, especially in clutch situations. Coach Charles Lee praised their growth and hustle, noting how their development in high-leverage moments is laying the groundwork for the team’s future.
Still, as promising as the young core looks long-term, this is a brutal matchup against a deep and hungry Pacers team. Charlotte’s defense ranks near the bottom of the league, and their lack of scoring options outside of Bridges could become a problem quickly.
Lean: Under 222.0 if Indiana runs away early and shortens the pace late
Player Prop Picks
Tyrese Haliburton Over 10.5 Assists – He’s been facilitating at an elite level and could feast on a weak Charlotte defense.
Obi Toppin Over 13.5 Points – He’s seen an increased role lately and should stay hot against a young Hornets frontcourt.
Miles Bridges Over 21.5 Points – With Charlotte’s scoring options limited, expect him to shoulder the load again.
Final Prediction
Pacers dominate start to finish and cover the big number
Pacers 121, Hornets 100
Best ATS Bet: Indiana -15.5
Total Lean: Under 222.0
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
