Indiana Pacers @ Charlotte Hornets - November 8, 2024

As the Indiana Pacers prepare to face off against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center, there are several key statistics and trends that suggest how this matchup may unfold. The oddsmakers have opened with the Pacers as 5.5-point favorites, reflecting their stronger overall performance thus far in the season.

The Pacers come into this game with a record of 4-4 straight up (SU) and 5-3 against the spread (ATS). They’ve been particularly impressive in their last five games, going 4-1 ATS. Their offensive efficiency has been notable, averaging approximately 118.4 points per game on an impressive shooting percentage of nearly 50%. This high-scoring ability is bolstered by their solid assist numbers, averaging around 30 assists per game. Their recent matchups have also seen totals go over in five consecutive games, indicating a trend towards higher scoring.

On the other hand, we have the Hornets who sit at 3-5 SU and are slightly better than average at covering spreads with a record of 4-4 ATS. However, they’ve struggled recently, going just 2-5 SU in their last seven games and only managing to cover two out of their last six spreads. Offensively, Charlotte averages about 111.3 points per game but does so with less efficiency—shooting roughly 44% from the field compared to Indiana’s near-50%. Additionally, while they can shoot well from beyond the arc at around 37%, they struggle significantly at the free throw line with only about a 72% success rate.

Defensively speaking, both teams show some vulnerabilities that could play a role in tonight’s contest. The Pacers allow about 42 rebounds per game while forcing approximately seven steals but also commit over twenty fouls on average. Meanwhile, Charlotte allows more turnovers (16) than they create steals (7), which could prove detrimental against an efficient Indiana offense.

Given these stats and trends leading into this matchup, I predict that the Pacers will not only win but will also cover the spread comfortably given their current form and offensive capabilities compared to what Charlotte has displayed thus far this season.

As for total points scored in tonight’s game? Considering Charlotte’s recent tendency to hit unders—with five of their last six games falling below expected totals—and Indiana’s propensity for higher-scoring affairs being counterbalanced by potential defensive adjustments from Charlotte; I expect that tonight’s total will likely fall under as both teams grapple for control early on.

In summary: I foresee a victory for Indiana along with them successfully covering the spread while betting enthusiasts might want to lean towards taking the under on total points scored when these two teams clash tonight.