Celtics vs Pacers game preview

The Boston Celtics head into Game 3 against the Indiana Pacers with a commanding 2-0 series lead, showing why they finished top in the Eastern Conference. Key to their performance has been Jayson Tatum, who continues to be an offensive juggernaut, averaging 26.9 points per game. His prowess on both ends of the court has been complemented by efficient ball distribution from Derrick White who averages 5.2 assists per game. The Celtics' ability to control the game, accentuated by their depth and Tatum's 8.1 rebounds per game, has allowed them to keep opponents on the back foot. As they gear up for the next game, maintaining this balanced aggression and tight defense will be crucial, especially as they aim to tighten their grip on the series away from home.

The Indiana Pacers face an uphill battle going into Game 3, being down two games in this first-round matchup. The team’s performance hinges heavily on the health of Tyrese Haliburton, who is currently day-to-day with hamstring soreness. Haliburton is essential for the Pacers both as a scorer, leading the team with 20.1 points per game, and as a distributor, with an impressive 10.9 assists per game. His potential absence or limitation could hurt Indiana’s offensive flow significantly, placing more pressure on players like Myles Turner, who leads the team with 6.9 rebounds per game, to step up. The Pacers will need to find a way to rally and optimize their game plan, focusing perhaps on tightening defense and exploiting any Celtics' weaknesses if they aim to make a comeback in this series.

How to Watch the Celtics vs Pacers

The Celtics vs. Pacers game will be televised on ABC and is scheduled for Sat 8:30 PM.

Celtics vs Pacers predictions

The Celtics are rolling, and I'm expecting some big performances from their stars in Game 3. Jayson Tatum is going to come out swinging, dropping 30-plus points with ease. He's been on a tear all series, and I don't see him slowing down anytime soon. Jaylen Brown will chip in with a solid 25-point, 7-rebound night, and Al Horford will continue to do his thing, grabbing 9 boards and swatting away a couple of Pacers shots. Oh, and Derrick White will quietly rack up 16 points and 5 assists, making some crucial plays on both ends of the floor.

On the Pacers' side, Tyrese Haliburton will try to keep his team afloat, but even his impressive 17-point, 8-assist outing might not be enough to keep up with the Celtics' firepower. Myles Turner will have a strong game, notching a double-double with 18 points and 10 rebounds, but the Pacers' supporting cast just doesn't have the firepower to keep up with Boston. Andrew Nembhard will try to make some plays off the bench, but it's just not their night.

When the dust settles, I think the Celtics will take this one by 8-10 points. They've got the firepower, they've got the momentum, and they've got the coach who always seems to outmaneuver his opponents. The Pacers will fight hard, but ultimately, they'll be outgunned. Boston takes it, moving one step closer to the Eastern Conference Finals.

Indiana Pacers injuries

• Tyrese Haliburton (PG): Day-To-Day
• Bennedict Mathurin (SG): Out

Boston Celtics injuries

• Luke Kornet (C): Day-To-Day
• Kristaps Porzingis (C): Out