The Indiana Pacers will face the Boston Celtics for the fifth and final time in the current season on January 30 (Tuesday) at TD Garden Arena. Indiana won the last matchup against the Celtics 133-131. The Pacers’ point guard, Tyrese Haliburton, missed this last matchup. However, he could return in the next game after missing the last five games due to a hamstring injury. The Celtics will continue a season-high six-game homestand when they take on the Pacers. Boston bounced back from consecutive losses with a 118-112 win over New Orleans less than 24 hours earlier. The Pacers won their last three games even without Haliburton, as Pascal Siakam is performing well for them.
Preview
Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam have played together only once since the Indiana Pacers acquired him from the Toronto Raptors. Despite the excitement surrounding the duo, they lost to the Portland Trail Blazers 118-115 on January 19. Siakam has adjusted well to his role and is playing great basketball this season. If Haliburton is available for the upcoming game, his duo with Siakam would be able to carry the Pacers past the Celtics.
The Boston Celtics’ lazy start almost left them behind for the second game in a row. They couldn’t make a comeback against the LA Clippers but managed to get a win against the New Orleans Pelicans on Monday. The Pacers have the best offensive rating in the NBA and with Tyrese expected to return, they can be at their best again. The Celtics can’t afford another sluggish start against the Pacers’ fast-paced offense.
Starting lineup
If Tyrese is cleared to play, he will start the game for the Pacers. If not, Andrew Nembhard or TJ McConnell can start. Myles Turner missed the last game due to mid-back spasms. If he is benched, Jalen Smith could replace him. Buddy Hield, Pascal Siakam and Aaron Nesmith are also expected to line up for tip-off. The Boston Celtics benched Kristaps Porzingis on Monday. He is likely to resume his spot at center as the Celtics will likely rest Al Horford. Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Derrick White and Jrue Holiday are expected to start for the Celtics.
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Prediction
The Boston Celtics won their first matchup against the Indiana Pacers 155-104 at TD Garden. However, Boston will play for the second night in a row on Tuesday, so a dominant win is unlikely. The Celtics can win the season series, but allow the Pacers to cover the spread.
