Pacers Aim for First Win Against Grizzlies in Memphis Showdown

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – The Indiana Pacers will face the Memphis Grizzlies tonight at FedExForum, seeking their first win of the season after falling to the Oklahoma City Thunder in their opener. The game is set to tip off at 8:00 p.m. ET.

The Grizzlies started the season with a 1-1 record, including a loss to the Miami Heat last night. Memphis is currently a 2.5-point favorite and bets on them have -130 odds, while the Pacers are at +110 odds. The expected game total is set at 237.5 points.

Expectations for the Pacers have tempered following the recovery of Tyrese Haliburton from an Achilles injury. In their recent double-overtime game against the Thunder, Bennedict Mathurin scored a team-high 36 points, aided by Pascal Siakam‘s 32 points and 15 rebounds. Despite their loss, the Pacers maintained their fast-paced style, though Haliburton’s absence leaves an impact on their overall cohesion.

Meanwhile, the Grizzlies, under new head coach Tuomas Iisalo, are also in transition. Ja Morant leads Memphis with an average of 23.5 points per game, and rookie Cedric Coward has made waves with 15 points in his debut. However, the team is struggling with three-point shooting, hitting only 29.3% so far this season.

Both teams are grappling with injuries and adjustments. The Pacers emerged from their opener with slight rest, while the Grizzlies are facing back-to-back games. Despite Memphis being at home, the conditions create a competitive atmosphere. Carolina’s performance last season showed a high pace, so the expectation remains that scoring will be frequent.

Sean Barnard’s prediction leans toward Indiana securing their first victory, with a strong possibility of the total points exceeding 237.5. The offensive styles of both teams suggest an opportunity for a high-scoring affair, particularly after both teams routinely exceed total points in their past matchups.