Pacers Look to Build Momentum Against Struggling Pelicans
Indiana Pacers vs. New Orleans Pelicans Game Preview: Can the Pacers Capitalize on Pelicans’ Struggles?
On Sunday, the Indiana Pacers will welcome the New Orleans Pelicans to Gainbridge Fieldhouse for an intriguing East vs. West matchup. The game is slated to tip off at 5:00 p.m. ET, with the Pacers entering as 6-point favorites. The over/under total for the game is set at 226.5 points.
As both teams continue to navigate challenging seasons, Indiana will look to build momentum after their recent victory, while New Orleans remains mired in a deep slump. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the game’s key storylines, statistics, and betting insights.
New Orleans Pelicans Struggling with Injuries and Inconsistencies
The New Orleans Pelicans (5-21 SU, 10-16 ATS, 12-13-1 O/U) are stuck in a tough stretch, having lost three straight and 12 of their last 13 games. Their most recent defeat came in a 111-109 loss to the Sacramento Kings, despite shooting better from the field and from deep. However, New Orleans’ inability to secure rebounds, especially on the offensive glass, hurt them significantly. The Pelicans were outrebounded 50-43 and allowed 17 offensive boards. Moreover, turnovers (17) proved costly.
Statistically, the Pelicans’ offensive struggles are well-documented. They rank a dismal 28th in offensive rating and 27th in defensive rating, per Dunks and Threes. They also sit at the bottom of the league in effective field goal percentage (50.1%), reflecting their inefficiency both at the rim and beyond the arc. New Orleans does have one of the league’s better offensive rebounding units (top 10), but they also rank 23rd in free-throw rate, further exacerbating their issues.
Defensively, New Orleans ranks 26th in opponent effective field goal percentage (eFG%) and struggles in several key areas, including defending the rim and the three-point line. They allow opponents to attempt a league-high 38.3% of their shots at the rim, underscoring their vulnerability inside. Despite their mid-range defense ranking 3rd in the league, the Pelicans rank 29th in opponent offensive rebound rate, which could be problematic against a Pacers team that thrives in the paint.
Indiana Pacers Riding High After Recent Win Over Philadelphia
The Indiana Pacers (11-15 SU, 9-16-1 ATS, 16-9-1 O/U) come into this game with a 121-107 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday. The Pacers were impressive as 6.5-point underdogs, led by Tyrese Haliburton, who posted an impressive 32 points and 11 assists. Indiana shot 51.6% from the field and dominated inside, scoring 54 points in the paint while dishing out 35 assists on 47 made field goals.
Indiana’s offensive efficiency is evident in their ranking of 13th in offensive rating and their ability to shoot effectively from the floor. The Pacers are among the league’s leaders in both effective field goal percentage (8th) and three-point shooting (37.3%, 11th). With four players averaging over 15 points per game, the Pacers have a balanced offensive attack that can give the Pelicans’ defense fits.
However, defensively, Indiana has room for improvement. They rank 24th in defensive rating and have struggled in several key defensive categories. They allow opponents to shoot an inefficient 27th in eFG% and struggle at defending both the rim (20th in rim defense) and the three-point line (21st in three-point defense). These vulnerabilities could be exploited by a Pelicans squad desperate for a win.
Conclusion
Despite New Orleans’ injury concerns and offensive inefficiencies, the Pacers have their work cut out for them defensively. However, Indiana’s offensive firepower, combined with New Orleans’ ongoing struggles, should be enough for the Pacers to secure the win at home. Look for a high-scoring game with the Pacers covering the 6-point spread and the over hitting.
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