LA Lakers (43-28) at Indiana (42-29)
- When: Mar 26 2025, 7:30 PM
- Where: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- TV: ESPN
NBA Betting Preview: Lakers vs Pacers – Spread, Total, Predictions & Insights
Spread: Indiana -1.0 | Total: 235.5
Indiana Pacers Outlook
The Pacers are one of the hottest teams in the league right now, riding a five-game win streak and sitting comfortably in the Eastern Conference playoff picture. A win over the Lakers would tie their season-best win streak and solidify their position as a real postseason threat.
Indiana’s offense continues to thrive, averaging over 119 points per game during their current streak. Obi Toppin has stepped up in a big way, posting 16.8 PPG over the past five games while shooting 46% from deep in March. Look for Toppin’s offensive presence to continue against a Lakers defense that’s shown vulnerability on the road.
Defensively, Indiana is quietly making strides. Their scoring defense has improved dramatically year over year, and Andrew Nembhard has become a defensive anchor. After locking down Anthony Edwards in their last game, Nembhard could be tasked with guarding Luka Doncic or LeBron, depending on matchups.
With Pascal Siakam (20.8 PPG, 7.0 RPG) and Tyrese Haliburton (18.5 PPG, 10.6 APG) providing stability, Indiana’s mix of youth and experience makes them a tough out at home.
Best Bet Props (Indiana):
Obi Toppin Over 8.5 Points
Nembhard Over 1.5 Steals
Los Angeles Lakers Outlook
The Lakers are skidding at the wrong time. Having dropped three straight and seven of their last 10, Los Angeles is fighting to avoid the play-in round and hold on to a top-six seed in the West.
Luka Doncic (27.2 PPG with LA) and LeBron James (24.9 PPG) are doing their part, combining for 56 points in the loss to Orlando. But with little help from the rest of the roster and shaky defensive rotations, the Lakers have struggled to close games.
Health is also a concern, as LeBron is nursing a groin injury (though he’s listed as probable). The pressure is mounting as they begin a four-game road swing, and this clash with Indiana becomes even more critical if the Lakers want to turn things around before the postseason.
Los Angeles will need to play cleaner on both ends to hang with Indiana’s fast-paced attack. Defensive breakdowns and inconsistent bench contributions have cost them against younger, quicker teams like the Pacers.
Best Bet Props (Lakers):
Doncic Over 29.5 Points
LeBron Over 6.5 Assists
Betting Prediction & Pick
This is a clash of two teams trending in opposite directions. The Pacers are playing with confidence and chemistry, while the Lakers look disjointed despite their star power. Indiana has covered in four of their last five, and with home-court advantage, they get the nod in a tight spread.
Best Bet: Pacers -1.0
Total Lean: Under 235.5 – expect a playoff-type atmosphere with more defensive intensity
Final Score Prediction: Pacers 118, Lakers 113
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
