The Pacers are far from where we expected them to be this year. That’s mainly due to a massive drop-off in Tyrese Haliburton. He looks like a completely different player this year. His shooting numbers are down, which has impacted his confidence. Recently, he strung together a few games that look a little more promising, but still, he hasn’t found that confidence he’s been known for.
They've struggled as a whole without Haliburton being the keystone for this offense. Pascal Siakam has been reliable as ever, but his efforts haven’t been enough, with the guard positions leaving him out to dry. Maybe the return of Andrew Nembhard will help, as he’s expected to play tonight, but we’re not going to hold our breath.
We don't love the matchup with the Raptors. With Scottie Barnes back, this roster is not nearly as bad as their record. They’re still not an elite team, but with how RJ Barrett has played, they look scary for the Pacers tonight.
We have low expectations for this group, especially on the road, where the Pacers have struggled the most. They have only won two road games this year, one against Detroit and the other against the Mavericks. Now, in Canada, this team will have to figure it out quickly to have a chance.
Haliburton and Pascal will need to be locked in. They have a chance if we can get Haliburton from the Blazer or New Orleans games. However, with the amount of data we already have, things look bleak. We think Toronto will take it tonight and add another L to the loss column for Indiana.
Toronto final has some optimism around the team. Scottie Barnes is back, and RJ Barrett is cooking. Their record still might have them in the bottom of the East, but this team looks dangerous with Barnes. They’ll be a tough matchup for the Pacers, who have traveled horribly this year. With a solid matchup down the board, Toronto should have great odds to take this one tonight.
Even though Scottie Barnes' return has helped a ton, this team still has some deep-rooted flaws. They are still near the bottom in three-point percentage and turn the ball over far too much. Despite this, they have been successful in most other places. They’ve been rebounding at a high level and are shooting well from the floor. The pieces on this team seem to fit, but they look like they’re missing one last guy.
Toronto needs someone who can spread the floor. Will that come from a trade or someone elevating on the active roster? It’s hard to say. Gradey Dick and RJ Barrett have made some improvements shooting this year, but it feels like they need someone at the PG spot. Regardless of what they do, this team has a bright future.
We think Toronto will come out strong against the Pacers tonight and take this one handily.
Raptor Injuries:
Gradey Dick Questionable
Kelly Olynyk Questionable
Immanuel Quickley Out
Bruce Brown Out
Injuries:
Andrew Nembhard Probable
Aaron Nesmith Out
Spread: -3 IND (-105) / TOR +3 (-115)
Total Points: 238
Moneyline: IND (-142) / TOR (+120)
Jakob Poeltl Over 15.5 Points (-120)
Scottie Barnes 40+ Combined Points + Assists + Rebounds (+100)
Myles Turner 10+ Rebounds (+200)
Tyrese Haliburton 2+ Steals (+100)