Dallas Mavericks (32-23) vs. Indiana Pacers (31-25)
As we enter the second half of the NBA season, Dallas Mavericks and Indiana Pacers are set to square off at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in what should be an exciting showdown. With the Mavericks holding an edge in standings over Pacers, this matchup could prove crucial as both teams try to gain playoff traction. Scheduled for Sunday afternoon, this contest has caught top betting sites as well as fans’ attention, offering promising sports betting prospects and NBA action alike.
The Mavericks have won 5 straight games to maintain a top 6 spot in the West. The team stats show why their offense has been so dominant. Dallas is averaging 118.7 points per game on 47.8% shooting from the field and 37.3% from three. They also boast strong rebounding (42.2 per game) and playmaking (25.6 assists per game) numbers. However, they allow the 21st most points per game defensively which could be a concern.
Meanwhile, the Pacers are 3-2 over their previous 5 games as they battle for home court out East. While not household names, Indiana shares the ball effectively, averaging 30.9 assists per contest. They rank 5th in the NBA in scoring at 123.7 points per game on 50.8% shooting. Tyrese Haliburton helps drive their elite offense with his 11.7 assists per game. Though also middling defensively (17th in opponent PPG allowed), the Pacers play a fun, team-oriented brand of basketball under coach Rick Carlisle.
Dallas Mavericks vs. Indiana Pacers Game Info
| When: | Sunday, February 25, 2024, at 5:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Gainbridge Fieldhouse |
| TV: | BSIN |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Luka Doncic (PG) vs. Tyrese Haliburton (PG)
In 47 games this season, Luka Doncic is averaging 34.2 points, 8.8 rebounds, 9.5 assists, 1.4 steals, and 0.6 blocks in 37.4 minutes per game. He has started in all 47 games with shooting splits of 47.8% FG, 37.3% from three, and 75.5% FT. His high usage leads to 4 turnovers per game, but his 2.4 assist to turnover ratio is solid.
Meanwhile, Tyrese Haliburton has averaged 21.8 points, 11.7 assists, 3.9 rebounds, and 1 steal in 32 minutes per game across 43 games (42 started). He is shooting efficiently with splits of 50.8% FG, 38.1% from three and 77.7% FT this season. Haliburton has done an excellent job taking care of the basketball with just 2.4 turnovers per game and an terrific 4.9 assist to turnover ratio.
This matchup features Doncic’s high-volume scoring ability against Haliburton’s pass-first approach. Both electric point guards excel at making their teammates better and will look to exploit any defensive weaknesses. This individual PG battle could determine which team’s offense gets into more of an offensive flow.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
With the betting odds yet to be determined, this matchup presents a tricky but enticing challenge for bettors. The Mavericks’ recent form and Doncic’s dominance might sway odds in their favor, but the Pacers’ home advantage and Haliburton’s leadership cannot be underestimated.
Dallas Mavericks Betting Trends
Dallas has rewarded bettors during their recent hot streak, covering four of their past five contests. The Mavericks also boast an impressive 16-9 against the spread record away from Dallas, indicating they travel well and play consistently on the highway. However, Dallas’ suspect defense has led to a number of high-scoring overs, especially on the road where 14 of their last 20 have exceeded the total.
Indiana Pacers Betting Trends
While Indiana sits seventh in the East standings, they have been a rollercoaster for bettors all season. The Pacers are just 15-13 at home against the spread and have only covered once over their previous five outings. However, the offensive fireworks have led to a number of overs with 19 of Indiana’s last 28 home games surpassing the betting total.
Dallas Mavericks vs. Indiana Pacers 2/25/24 Betting Picks
Given both teams’ current forms and statistical analyses, this game should be tight. While the Mavericks may edge it slightly in their favor due to their balanced attack/defense capabilities, Indiana can pose an equal threat with its home court advantage and offensive firepower.
Based on the available data and trends, my recommendation leans toward the Dallas Mavericks as the more stable team led by Doncic; however, betting on total points to go OVER could also be an intelligent decision given both teams’ impressive offensive capabilities.
Search for NBA free picks that capitalize on individual player performances – particularly Doncic and Haliburton’s – to add significant value to your betting slip.
