Orlando Magic (16-10) vs. Indiana Pacers (14-12)
Orlando Magic vs. Indiana Pacers 12/23/23 – The NBA stage is set for an exciting showdown as the Orlando Magic, boasting a strong 16-10 record, take on the Indiana Pacers, who are not far behind at 14-12, on December 23, 2023. This matchup, scheduled for 7:00 PM ET at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse and airing on BSIN, promises to be a riveting contest. Fans and bettors alike are keenly looking for top basketball tips as these two closely matched teams face off.
The Magic have been impressive this season, averaging 113.2 points per game with an outstanding 47.5% field goal percentage. Their strength lies in their balanced offensive and defensive play – highlighted by 43.6 rebounds per game and 25 assists per game – but should look to reduce turnovers and fouls that could allow the Pacers to exploit them more. Their road performance against the spread (6-4) shows strong ability to perform under pressure away from home.
The Pacers match the Magic in points per game at 113.2, showing an equal offensive presence with their field goal percentage (47.5%), 3 point shooting at 34.4% success rate and free throw shooting of 76.6% respectively. Unfortunately for both teams, turnovers (14.3 per game) and fouls (21.6 per game) become issues during games, potentially making each contest one in which each side takes advantage of mistakes made by one another.
Orlando Magic vs. Indiana Pacers Game Info
| When: | Saturday, December 23, 2023, at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Gainbridge Fieldhouse |
| TV: | BSIN |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Paolo Banchero (PF) vs. Tyrese Haliburton (PG)
The Magic will rely heavily on Paolo Banchero to lead their efficient scoring attack against the Pacers. Banchero is averaging 21 points per game along with nearly 7 rebounds and 4 assists. His size and versatility as a frontcourt scorer present matchup problems Indiana will have to contend with. However, Banchero is prone to turning over the ball with nearly 4 per game.
For the Pacers, Tyrese Haliburton will look to exploit Orlando’s 22nd ranked defense. Averaging nearly 25 points and 12 assists, Haliburton has the Pacers offense running smoothly this season. His efficiency as a scorer and elite court vision fuel Indiana’s 5th ranked offense. Haliburton does lack size defensively so dealing with Banchero presents a challenge he’ll have to overcome.
This matchup features two talented young players still improving their games. While both Banchero and Haliburton have flaws to address, their strengths showcase why these franchises view them as franchise cornerstones. Their individual matchup and ability to lift their teammates will decide this game. Banchero’s inside scoring vs Haliburton’s perimeter shooting pits contrasting offensive styles against each other.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds and point spread are still to be determined, but they will play a crucial role in how bettors approach this game. Given the close records and stats of both teams, this game is expected to have tight odds.
Orlando Magic Betting Trends
The Magic enter this game with an impressive 6-4 against the spread record on the road this season. This shows even away from Orlando, they play tight games decided by a single possession. However, the Magic are just 2-3 against the spread over their past 5 outings. This could indicate some betting value exists backing Orlando as short underdogs to cover. An important trend is 4 of the Magic’s previous 5 contests have gone OVER the projected total.
Indiana Pacers Betting Trends
For Indiana, they carry an impressive 5-4 against the spread record at home to date. With a raucous crowd behind them, the Pacers play inspired basketball protecting their home court. Over their last 5 contests, Indiana posted a 3-2 ATS record. Bettors can expect competitive betting lines for Pacers games. An intriguing trend is 9 of Indiana’s previous 12 home games have finished OVER the total.
Orlando Magic vs. Indiana Pacers 12/23/23 Betting Picks
Considering the analysis and betting trends, this game is likely to be a closely contested affair. The Magic’s balanced approach may be slightly offset by the Pacers’ home-court advantage and Haliburton’s exceptional playmaking.
For the best handicapper tips, it may be wise to look at the over/under bets, considering both teams’ high scoring averages and defensive challenges. Prop bets on individual player performances could also be intriguing.
Free Pick and Prediction: Indiana Pacers 115, Orlando Magic 112