Cleveland (33-5) at Indiana (22-18)
- When: Jan 14 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- TV: TNT
Game Preview
Cleveland Seeks Revenge Against Red-Hot Pacers in Key Central Division Showdown
With Cleveland favored by 8.0 points and the total set at 232.0, the Indiana Pacers and Cleveland Cavaliers are gearing up for an exciting rematch on Tuesday night. The Pacers, riding a six-game winning streak, stunned the league by snapping the NBA-best Cavaliers’ 12-game win streak with a dominant 108-93 win on the road Sunday. Can Cleveland bounce back in Indianapolis?
Pacers Riding Momentum
Indiana came alive in the second half of Sunday’s game, outscoring Cleveland 68-40 after trailing by 13 at halftime. Six Pacers scored in double figures, led by Andrew Nembhard’s 19-point performance. Head coach Rick Carlisle praised his team’s energy, noting their aggressive and cohesive play after the break.
Key Player Updates:
Pascal Siakam: Leads Indiana with 19.9 points per game and scored 18 points in Sunday’s win.
Tyrese Haliburton: A key playmaker averaging 18.1 points and 8.8 assists per game, Haliburton left Sunday’s game with a hamstring issue and is doubtful for Tuesday’s matchup.
Despite Haliburton’s potential absence, the Pacers’ deep roster has shown it can step up, with Nembhard, Bennedict Mathurin, and others contributing crucial offensive firepower.
Cavaliers Eye Redemption
Cleveland isn’t used to losing at home, boasting a stellar 20-2 record at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Sunday’s defeat marked their first home loss since November. Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson was candid, admitting the team needs to maintain intensity for a full 48 minutes.
Key Cavaliers Players:
Donovan Mitchell: The team’s leading scorer at 22.8 points per game, Mitchell will be looking for a bounce-back performance.
Darius Garland: Averaging 20.9 points and a team-high 6.7 assists per game, Garland’s playmaking will be crucial as Cleveland looks to control the pace.
Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen: Their presence inside gives Cleveland a rebounding edge, with Allen averaging 10.2 rebounds per game.
Betting Predictions and Key Props:
Spread Play: Pacers +8.0
Indiana’s recent form and defensive adjustments make them an appealing pick to cover the spread, especially if they carry over their second-half intensity from Sunday.
Total Bet: Under 232.0
Although both teams have offensive talent, Cleveland’s strong defense and the potential absence of Haliburton may slow the pace, leading to a lower-scoring affair.
Player Props:
Donovan Mitchell Over 24.5 Points: Mitchell will look to assert himself early after a quiet performance on Sunday.
Jarrett Allen Over 10.5 Rebounds: Expect Allen to dominate the glass, especially if Indiana plays small without Haliburton directing traffic.
Game Prediction:
Cleveland 111, Indiana 106
The Cavaliers are in a prime spot for a bounce-back performance, but don’t underestimate the Pacers’ grit and ability to keep things close. Indiana’s depth and confidence make this a compelling underdog bet.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
