The Indiana Pacers return home to Gainbridge Fieldhouse for Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Boston Celtics, looking to protect their perfect 6-0 home record in the playoffs. However, Indiana may have to do so without Tyrese Haliburton, who is listed as a game-time decision (hamstring). Expect the Pacers to pull out all the stops on Saturday night to avoid falling 0-3 in the series.
Let’s review some best bets for Game 3.
Best bet: Boston Celtics over 114.5 total points.
While Indiana struggled on defense during the regular season, they improved a bit in the playoffs. But they faced a tough matchup against the Celtics offense in this series. Boston has scored over 114.5 points in six of its last seven games against the Pacers, including the first two games of the Eastern Conference Finals.
Best bet: Al Horford over 19.5 points, rebounds and assists.
The Pacers will be desperate for a win in Game 3 and Indiana can’t let Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown beat them, which should create more open looks for Horford. Additionally, with Luke Kornet listed as questionable for Game 3 (left wrist sprain), expect Horford to see more playing time Saturday night.
Best bet: Pascal Siakam on 22.5 points.
With Haliburton injured, the Pacers will likely rely heavily on Siakam as their top point guard. He has scored 22 or more points in four of his last five games, averaging 18.2 field goal attempts in 34.8 minutes per game during this period.
Boston Celtics vs. Indiana Pacers
Eastern Finals – Match 3
8:30 p.m. Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis
Records (against the spread)
Celtics: 64-18 (43-35-4)
Pacers: 47-35 (44-36-2)
Double: Celtics (-7.5) Total: 222.5
Money line: Celtics (-285), Pacers (+235)
CPI projection: Celtics 2.3, up 58%, 222.0 points total.
Injury Report:
Celtics: Luke Kornet, (GTD – Wrist); Kristaps Porzingis, (OUT – Calf)
Pacers: Tyrese Haliburton, (GTD – hamstring); Bennedict Mathurin, (OUT – Shoulder)
