Mavericks Face Pacers Amidst Challenging Season

DALLAS — On Wednesday, March 19, the struggling Dallas Mavericks (33-36) will face off against the Indiana Pacers (38-29) at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The Mavericks, who have traded Luka Doncic earlier in the season, come into this matchup amid a challenging period, having lost seven of their last eight games. Meanwhile, the Pacers are vying for playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference, making this game critical for both teams.

The Mavericks are currently 14-20 in road games this season, with a neutral point differential, while the Pacers boast an impressive 8-2 record in their last ten home games. This matchup marks the second and final meeting between the two teams this season, with the Pacers winning the first game 134-127 in Dallas.

After a three-game road trip, the Pacers return home, where they recently secured a 132-130 overtime victory against the Timberwolves. In contrast, the Mavericks are on a three-game losing streak, having lost their most recent game to the Philadelphia 76ers, 130-125.

The Dallas team has faced significant challenges in rebounding since the trade of Doncic and the loss of key player Anthony Davis. In their last three games, the Mavericks have secured only 42.3% of available rebounds, presenting an opportunity for Pacers player Pascal Siakam, who has tallied 7 or more rebounds in five of his last six outings.

Expectations for the game are high for the Pacers, with odds favoring them, currently lined at -10.5 against the Mavericks. Experts predict that the Pacers have a 79% chance of winning based on recent performances and statistical models, implying a potential 119-110 outcome in favor of Indiana.

The Mavericks’ defensive struggles are evident, allowing opposing teams to shoot 59.3% from two-point range over their last three games. This, combined with their rebounding deficiencies, puts them at a disadvantage against the effective Pacers squad, ranked fourth in the NBA in effective field goal percentage.

The Mavericks aim to secure a victory to maintain their place in the play-in tournament, which sits at No. 10 in the Western Conference standings. Following their game against the Pacers, Dallas will return home to face the Detroit Pistons before traveling to New York to challenge the Nets and Knicks.

NBA enthusiasts can catch the matchup at 6 p.m. on KFAA. With playoff implications on the line and the Mavericks seeking an end to their losing streak, this game promises to offer intense competition.