Indiana Pacers (14-13) vs. Houston Rockets (14-12)
Indiana Pacers vs. Houston Rockets 12/26/23 – On Tuesday night’s NBA fixture between Indiana Pacers (14-13) and Houston Rockets (14-12), both sides will face off for an intense contest that should produce exciting play at Toyota Center at 8 pm ET and broadcasted via NBAt. Multi-handicapper tips and picks have highlighted how close these teams’ standings are; both will look to assert their dominance to move up in conference rankings.
Indiana Pacers have been an enigmatic team this season, displaying an explosive offense while lacking consistency on defense. Averaging 127.1 points per game with a field goal percentage of 50.5% and impressive three-point shooting (37.8%) and free throw accuracy (79.7%), their offensive prowess is clear while their defense needs work; particularly with respect to reducing its average of 22.2 fouls per game and turnovers (12.7 per game).
Houston Rockets have shown more balance on offense, averaging 111.8 points per game on average and featuring an effective field goal percentage (46.2%) and 3-point shooting (36.3%) that compare favorably with Indiana Pacers. Furthermore, their rebounding numbers–45.9 per game on average–may play a vital role in controlling game pace and creating second chance points.
Indiana Pacers vs. Houston Rockets 12/26/23 Game Info
| When: | Tuesday, December 26, 2023, at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Toyota Center |
| TV: | NBAt |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Tyrese Haliburton (PG) vs. Alperen Sengun (C)
Tyrese Haliburton has taken a major leap in his 3rd year, averaging 24.3 points and 12 assists per game. His court vision and passing ability make Indiana’s offense click. However, Haliburton’s scoring comes and goes at times. He will need an aggressive mindset against a porous Houston defense. Defensively, Haliburton racks up steals but can struggle against more physical guards.
Alperen Sengun is a highly skilled big man, posting 19.8 points, 9.2 rebounds and 5.2 assists per night. He has an advanced low post game but does most damage as a distributor out of the high post. While talented, Sengun’s defense and athleticism remain works in progress. Haliburton could exploit Sengun in the pick-and-roll, forcing switches onto quicker guards. However, Sengun’s size could also bother the sleight-framed Haliburton inside.
Haliburton and Sengun will face off in a classic guard versus center battle that will showcase different styles and skillsets. Haliburton’s speed and perimeter play against Sengun’s physicality and inside dominance will determine the flow of the game; their performances could make or break their teams’ chances at victory.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds and point spread for this encounter are yet to be released. However, given their similar records and contrasting styles, this game could be closely contested. Bettors and fans will be keenly watching the line movements leading up to the game to gauge the sentiment and potential outcomes.
Indiana Pacers Betting Trends
The Pacers are just 1-4 against the spread (ATS) over their last 5 contests, consistently falling short of covering margins. Indiana also has a losing 6-8 ATS record on the road this season. However, a matchup against Houston’s porous defense provides a chance to find their scoring touch. The Pacers high-powered attack should also fare well hitting the over, going over the total in 11 of their last 14 overall.
Houston Rockets Betting Trends
Despite their losing record, Houston has posted a winning 14-12 mark ATS this season, consistently covering spreads as underdogs. The Rockets are also a solid 5-6 ATS at home, playing tight contests in Toyota Center. Totals have gone over in 3 of Houston’s last 5 games, indicative of their fast pace and inability to get stops. Houston’s scoring volatility also lends itself to high totals on any given night.
Indiana Pacers vs. Houston Rockets 12/26/23 Betting Picks
Based on the analysis and recent trends, this game appears to be a toss-up. The Pacers’ offensive firepower, led by Haliburton, is noteworthy, but their defensive lapses could be exploited by the Rockets, especially with Sengun in fine form.
For NBA game day insights, the recommendation would be to focus on the individual matchups and how they might affect the game’s dynamics. The over/under market could also be interesting, given both teams’ tendencies in recent games.
This game is poised to be a high-scoring affair, but the prediction leans slightly towards the Houston Rockets, especially with their home-court advantage. Let’s anticipate a close, competitive game with the Rockets edging it out.
Free Pick and Prediction: Houston Rockets 118, Indiana Pacers 115