As the 2024 NBA postseason heats up, the basketball betting market is more active than ever. CBS Sports will be delivering daily picks throughout the playoffs, with Sam Quinn providing at least one pick for every game up to the NBA Finals.
Boston Celtics vs. Indiana Pacers
Tomorrow
- Boston
- Indiana -7.5 -108 +7.5 -112 -286 +231 O222.5 -110 U222.5 -110
The Pacers nearly clinched Game 1, but the Celtics rebounded to cover in Game 2. After those games, it seemed Boston had overcome Indiana’s best effort and reaffirmed its dominance in the series. In Game 3, despite Tyrese Haliburton’s injury, the Pacers put up a strong fight, though the Celtics ultimately secured the win. It’s hard to envision Indiana replicating their impressive 41-of-69 shooting from inside the arc without their star player. The Celtics, now close to the Finals, are likely to complete the sweep on Monday. The Pick: Celtics -7.5
While the Pacers might not repeat their 59% shooting on 2-pointers, their 22.7% from 3-point range in Game 3 is also unlikely to recur. Boston, shooting an uncharacteristic 35.9% from beyond the arc in this series, faces a defensively improved but still vulnerable Indiana without Haliburton. Given the series’ offensive nature, Game 4 is expected to be another high-scoring affair. The Pick: Over 222.5
In Game 3, Andrew Nembhard’s over 12.5-point line was a smart bet given the absence of Haliburton. His 32-point performance, however, has now pushed his line up to 16.5 points. Historically, Nembhard averages 13.4 points per game without Haliburton, and this season he’s averaging 12.5 points per game without him. One standout game has inflated his line, making the under a better bet. The Pick: Nembhard Under 16.5 Points
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