Indiana Pacers vs Charlotte Hornets betting tips and predictions for Friday’s NBA game. The Charlotte Hornets will try to win their 5th game in a row as they take on the Indiana Pacers. Read on for all our free predictions and betting tips.
Indiana Pacers
November was actually turning out to be a productive month for the Indiana Pacers as they won 5 of 7 games. However, then they decided to drop two games in a row against the New York Knicks and Detroit Pistons. Not only did they lose those games, but they were playing way below what their level is, especially on the offensive end. Against the Knicks they managed just 84 points and they followed it up with a 89-point effort against the Pistons. Malcolm Brogdon had 20+ in both games, but outside of him nobody else contributed significantly. Despite the two straight losses though, bettors have enjoyed the Pacers lately as they’ve still covered the spread 6 times in their last 9 games. This team struggles against teams from it’s own conference though. Indy has won just 3 of their last 12 games vs East teams. Tonight against Charlotte they also may be stripped of the services of Chris Duarte as he’s got a minor ankle issue.
Charlotte Hornets
The Hornets have turned things around in the past week or so with 4 straight wins. Not only that, all 4 teams that they’ve beaten are expected to make the postseason which is really impressive. The defense has come to life finally and they’ve allowed just 98.2 points per game in those 4 wins, most recently they held the Washington Wizards to just 87 points and 36% shooting from the field on Wednesday. Terry Rozier went a balanced attack with 19 points, while 5 other players also scored in double figures. With 5 wins in 7 games, the Hornets are one of the better teams in the NBA at home. They’ve also covered the spread 4 times in their last 5 games and in 6 of their last 9 games vs Eastern Conference opponents.
These two teams have already met once this season, with the Hornets coming out on top 123-122 in what was the season opener for both teams. A lot has changed since and we have a decent idea where each team stands as we get closer to December. Indiana’s away form has been dreadful with just 2 wins in 10 games, they have surprised us a few times this season, but I don’t think tonight is their night. Back Charlotte to cover at home.
Charlotte Hornets – Indiana Pacers Odds
Charlotte Hornets – Indiana Pacers Predictions
Hornets -2.5 Point Spread is available at -110 odds on bet365
Although the first meeting of the season produced 245 points, these two teams have been involved in some low scoring games during the last week or so. Indiana’s last two games have seen just 186 and 176 points scored. Charlotte’s last three have seen 184, 208 and 200 points, a big drop-off from what we are normally used to seeing from them. The total has gone under in 4 of their last 5 and for Indiana in 7 of their last 8 games, including their last 7 straight on the road. The Hornets were among the Top 3 fastest teams for a while, but have dropped down to 7th following their last few games. Indiana is currently 23rd in the NBA averaging just 96.9 possessions per game. I think we are in for a slower paced game here, so let’s go with the under.
Under 215 Total Points is available at -110 odds on bet365
