Pacers vs Celtics: Expected Line-Up for the NBA In-Season Tournament Quarterfinal Tonight for Both the Teams

The NBA In-Season Tournament drew a lot of ire and skepticism from the entire basketball fraternity. However, the inaugural season of the In-season tournament has been a success. According to Sports Business Journal, NBA games in November are averaging 1.48 million viewers across ESPN and TNT. These numbers are a 19% increase from last season’s games being played on Tuesdays and Fridays. There have been a few rough edges in the tournament, but the overall impact of the tournament has been positive.

The In-Season tournament is now in its closing stages, with the finals taking place on 9th December in Las Vegas. However, the knockout stages begin tonight, with the Indiana Pacers facing off against the Boston Celtics.

Predicted Lineups: Pacers vs Boston Celtics

The Celtics would want to win the inaugural In-Season tournament, as it would provide a morale boost for the season ahead. However, it won’t be easy because the Pacers will provide a stern test. The absence of Porzingis will have huge consequences on the game. But still, the Celtics have a very good team. They would start the game with Jrue Holiday, Derrick White, Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Al Horford.

The Pacers have impressed this season with their otherworldly offense, but still, they would go into the game as underdogs. Although Indiana has the best offense, their defense has been among the worst in the NBA. They have recorded a defensive rating of 120.9, second worst in the league. They would have to play their best basketball to overcome the daunting Celtics’ side. They would begin the game with Tyrese Haliburton, Bruce Brown, Bennedict Mathurin, Obi Toppin, and Miles Turner.

Porzingis sidelined for the game against Indiana

The business end of the In-Season tournament begins tonight, as the Pacers face the Celtics. The game tips off at 7:30 EST at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The Celtics will go into the game as favorites, but the Pacers are one of the most lethal offenses in the league right now. The Celtics also have the added disadvantage of missing Kristaps Porzingis through injury. Porzingis suffered a left calf strain during Boston’s 113-96 loss to the Orlando Magic.

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The Pacers might also be without multiple key players. The Pacers have listed Obi Toppin and Tyrese Haliburton (illness) as questionable for the game against the Boston Celtics. They will also miss the services of Jalen Smith, who remains sidelined due to a heel injury. Indiana has pleasantly surprised everyone this season, as they have significantly over-achieved their pre-season expectations. Under the leadership of coach Rick Carlisle, they have become the best offensive team in the league. Led by Haliburton, the Pacers have an offensive rating of 123.6. The quarterfinal is finely poised, as the Pacers will give Boston a run for their money.

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