The Indiana Pacers fumbled what would have been a great upset at the end of Game 1 against the Boston Celtics. Now they will have to regroup and go again, hoping that they can take home-court advantage in the series back to Indiana. The opening game might have awakened the hosts however, making them aware just what a threat their opponents could be in this series. It should make fir an intriguing Game 2.
You can check out all of our NBA picks for today's game, but for now let's jump into my Game 2 Pacers vs Celtics Same Game Parlay.
Over 225 (-108)
In the first game of the series the teams both scored 117 points in regulation. You got a real sense that the Boston Celtics were happy to play the Indiana Pacers at their own game, confident that they can outscore their opponents. The Pacers are giving up 112.4 points per game this postseason, more than any remaining playoff team, even though they have faced 2 injury hit squads in the earlier rounds. The Celtics are 2nd in offensive rating this postseason and should be able to take advantage. With the Pacers being first in that category, they will feel their best chance here is to overpower the hosts on the offensive end. Having scored 130 in their Game 7 road win over the Knicks and 128 in Game 1 on the road against the Celtics, they look to be in the zone.
The pace the teams played at in Game 1 was akin to the pace the teams that finished in the top 5 of that category played in the regular season. Look for the teams to get up and down the court once more. Myles Turner gives the Pacers good rim protection so look for the hosts to try and beat him down the floor by getting out in transition. The Celtics are able to put great ball pressure on the Pacers guards, forcing mistakes due to the defensive capabilities of the likes of Jrue Holiday. They scored 32 points off turnovers in Game 1 and could have the same level of success generating fast scoring looks off opponent mistakes tonight. Back the over as a result.