NBA Playoffs Odds: Game 7 Knicks vs Pacers
The New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers clash in Game 7 of the NBA Playoffs’ second round at Madison Square Garden. Tip-off is at 3:30 PM ET on Sunday, May 19.
BUSR NBA Playoff Odds
- Spread: Pacers +2 (-110), Knicks -2 (-110)
- Moneyline: Pacers +110, Knicks -130
- Total: O 209 (-110), U 209 (-110)
Indiana Pacers
The Pacers are known for their high-scoring offense, averaging 123.3 points per game with a 50.7% field goal percentage. They shoot 37.4% from three and excel in defensive rebounding with 31.4 rebounds per game. Their team play is highlighted by an impressive 30.8 assists per game, showcasing their strong ball distribution and teamwork, making them a formidable opponent.
New York Knicks
The Knicks, while averaging 112.8 points on 46.5% shooting, excel in rebounding, securing 45.2 boards per game, including 12.7 offensive rebounds. Controlling the tempo and maintaining possession are critical for their success. They boasted a top-five defense through the year and playoffs haven’t been different, allowing just 108.2 points per game and ranking second in rebounding defense.
Injury Report
The Pacers will be without Bennedict Mathurin, whose season ended due to a torn right labrum. The Knicks have several key players out: Julius Randle, Bojan Bogdanovic, Mitchell Robinson, and OG Anunoby are all sidelined.
Key Stats You Should Know
– Jalen Brunson: 28.7 points, 6.7 assists, 3.6 rebounds per game.
– Josh Hart: 9.4 points, 8.3 rebounds, 4.1 assists per game, shooting 43.4% from the field.
– Donte DiVincenzo: 15.5 points, 3.7 rebounds, 2.7 assists per game, shooting 44.3% from the field and 40.1% from three.
– Julius Randle: 24 points, 5 assists, 9.2 rebounds per game.
– Isaiah Hartenstein: 7.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.5 assists per game, shooting 64.4% from the field.
– Pascal Siakam (Pacers): 21.7 points, 7.1 rebounds, 4.3 assists per game.
– Tyrese Haliburton (Pacers): 20.1 points, 3.9 rebounds, 10.9 assists per game.
– Myles Turner (Pacers): 17.1 points, 6.9 rebounds per game, shooting 52.4% from the field.
– T.J. McConnell (Pacers): 10.2 points, 2.7 rebounds, 5.5 assists per game.
– Aaron Nesmith (Pacers): 12.2 points, 3.8 rebounds per game.
Team Data
– The Knicks have the second-best defense in the league, allowing 108.2 points per game.
– They rank fifth in rebounding with 45.2 per game and second in fewest rebounds allowed (40.6).
– The Knicks make 13.2 threes per game, shooting 36.9% from beyond the arc.
– The Pacers lead the league in scoring (123.3 points per game) but are fourth-worst in points allowed (120.2).
– Indiana ranks third-worst in rebounds per game (41.5) and 15th in rebounds allowed (43.4).
– The Pacers are 10th in made 3-pointers per game (13.2) and ninth in three-point shooting percentage (37.4%).
Prediction
This NBA Playoffs odds slightly favor the Knicks, likely due to their home-court advantage at Madison Square Garden. The total set at 209 points indicates expectations of a high-scoring game, consistent with both teams’ recent trends of surpassing point total predictions.
The Pacers have shown solid form recently, winning four of their last five games. They have been outstanding against the spread, especially during road contests, influencing betting strategies. The high number of games exceeding the point spread highlights both teams’ offensive capabilities.
Considering the dynamics and strengths of both teams, the Knicks have a slight edge due to their home-court advantage and robust rebounding, which could limit the Pacers’ second-chance points. However, the Pacers’ ability to cover the spread in recent games suggests they will keep it close. A Knicks victory is anticipated, but expect a tightly contested game that could hinge on a few key plays down the stretch. I’m putting my money on the Knicks (moneyline -130).