After a couple of stunning Game 1 matchups in the Conference Finals, we asked the AI Computer Model to point us in the right direction for Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals. Before heading to our top-rated sportsbooks, here’s what the model likes for the Eastern Conference Finals Game 2.
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And don’t forget to check out more NBA picks on our YouTube channel. Today, our expert covered this game and Friday’s Mavericks vs. Timberwolves game.
NBA Pick
- Under 224.5 (-110) at Caesars Sportsbook (check our Caesars Sportsbook Review)
Indiana Pacers vs. Boston Celtics
Thursday, May 23, 2024 – 08:00 PM ET at TD Garden
Our AI Model believes we’ll get 221 points for tonight’s matchup between the Celtics and Pacers. However, Caesars Sportsbook is holding a 224.5 total. With a 3.5-point cushion, the Under is the play per the AI Model.
Can The Pacers Continue Insane Offense?
The Pacers are the league’s best offense for a reason. However, they’ve shot a ridiculous 60.1% effective field goal percentage in four of their last five games. They’ve also scored at least 141.3 points per 100 possessions in three of their last five games.
Even for the best offensive team in the NBA, this seems unsustainable.
In addition, the Celtics forced 19.6% of turnovers against the Pacers. Typically, the Pacers don’t turn the ball over. If that continues, and the Pacers start to struggle from the field on the road, Indiana will be helpless.
Add on the fact that Indiana rarely gets to the foul line and will lose the foul-shot battle by a wide margin, and based on our NBA odds, it’s super unlikely the Pacers can continue this hot stretch moving forward.
It Takes Two To Tango
The Celtics have been consistent offensively too. They haven’t shot like the Pacers, but Boston has added at least 118.7 points per 100 possessions in four consecutive games.
They won’t have trouble offensively, except for high turnovers. That said, the Boston defense is better than anything Indiana has played against previously in the playoffs. Maybe it didn’t show in Game 1, but once we get a bigger sample size, you’ll see exactly what I mean.
Ultimately, the Celtics were out-rebounded by one in Game 1. However, when the series is over, the Celtics should ultimately win more games on the glass. They’ll also limit the Pacers from getting to the foul line, which keeps the clock moving and points off the board.
The Pick
The AI Model predicts the Under. So we’ll go with it!
NBA Pick: Under 224.5 (-110) at Caesars SportsbookÂ
*The line and/or odds referenced in this article might have changed since the content was published. For the latest information on line movements, visit OddsTrader’s free betting odds tool.
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