The Indiana Pacers and Detroit Pistons meet Wednesday to open their 2024-25 NBA seasons. Tip-off from Little Caesars Arena is set for 7 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s NBA odds around the Pacers vs. Pistons odds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions for the best bets.
Season series: First meeting; Indiana won 4-0 in 2023-24
The Pacers excelled offensively last season, leading the NBA in points per game (PPG) and field goal percentage, and finishing 2nd in offensive efficiency. PG Tyrese Haliburton led the way with 20.1 PPG and a league-best 10.9 APG, while mid-season addition PF Pascal Siakam contributed 21.3 PPG and 7.8 RPG. The return of SG Bennedict Mathurin, a strong defender and scorer, will be crucial. However, the Pacers struggled defensively, ranking 24th in defensive efficiency, which they’ll need to improve for a deeper playoff run.
The Pistons are aiming for a fresh start after a disappointing season, parting ways with GM Troy Weaver and coach Monty Williams. They’ve hired J.B. Bickerstaff, who led the Cavaliers to back-to-back playoff appearances. Key players include PG Cade Cunningham (22.7 PPG, 7.5 APG) and C Jalen Duren, a dominant force in the paint. Detroit added veteran F Tobias Harris, SF Tim Hardaway Jr., and SG Malik Beasley to bolster their young core.
Pacers at Pistons odds
Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of NBA odds. Lines last updated Tuesday at 10:46 p.m. ET.
- Moneyline (ML): Pacers -200 (bet $200 to win $100) | Pistons +165 (bet $100 to win $165)
- Against the spread (ATS): Pacers -4.5 (-110) | Pistons +4.5 (-110)
- Over/Under (O/U): 233.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)
Pacers at Pistons key injuries
Pacers
- SG Johnny Furphy (ankle) day-to-day
- C Mitchell Robinson (ankle) out
Pistons
- SF Bobi Klintman (calf) day-to-day
- SF Ausar Thompson (illness) day-to-day
For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.
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Pacers at Pistons picks and predictions
Prediction
Pacers 122, Pistons 115
Moneyline
PASS.
While Indiana (-200) is expected to be among the better teams this season and should win their season opener, the odds on the moneyline don’t offer enough value. The Pistons, though in a rebuild, have a promising young core and a few experienced veterans who could make the game competitive. A better play is the Pacers against the spread for a more favorable return.
Against the spread
BET PACERS -4.5 (-110).
While Detroit is expected to improve on last season’s 14 wins, their season opener looks tough. With a new coach and a revamped roster, the Pistons may need time to adjust. Meanwhile, the Pacers, who won and covered all 4 matchups last season, return a similar roster that reached the Eastern Conference Finals. With Haliburton and Siakam leading the way, their depth and experience should secure a road win.
Over/Under
BET OVER 233.5 (-115).
The Pistons will be better than last season, but they will need time to gel, which could lead to defensive lapses. Indiana’s depth and experience should result in plenty of scoring opportunities, making the Over a solid play.
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