The Indiana Pacers return home after an 11-day road trip to host the Detroit Pistons at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Indiana sits fifth in the Eastern Conference at 25-20, while Detroit is eighth at 23-23. The Pacers have won two of the three meetings this season, including a 111-100 win on January 16.
Indiana has been one of the hottest teams in the NBA in 2025, going 9-2 since the start of the year. They capped off their overseas trip with a dominant 38-point victory over the Spurs in Paris. Detroit, on the other hand, has struggled recently, losing four of its last six games as it closes out a five-game road trip.
Detroit Preview – Can the Pistons End Their Road Trip on a High Note?
The Pistons have been a surprise team in the East this season but have hit a rough stretch without Jaden Ivey, who remains sidelined with a broken fibula. Without Ivey, Cade Cunningham has taken on an even greater offensive role, averaging 27.6 points per game over his last five outings. However, his efficiency has dipped to 42% from the field.
Detroit struggled in its last game, falling 110-91 to Cleveland. The team shot just 41% from the field and managed only 91 points, well below their season average of 111.8. The Pistons will need stronger performances from supporting players like Jalen Duren, who had 12 points and 16 rebounds against the Cavs.
The Pistons have played slightly better on the road this season (13-12) compared to their home record (10-11), but they will need to break out of their offensive slump to keep pace with Indiana’s high-powered attack.
Indiana Preview – Pacers Look to Extend Hot Start in 2025
The Pacers have been rolling in January, winning nine of their last 11 games. They rank fourth in the NBA in field goal percentage (49%) and have one of the most balanced offenses in the league, with seven players averaging double figures. Pascal Siakam leads the team with 20.2 points per game, while Tyrese Haliburton averages 18.0.
Haliburton was instrumental in Indiana’s 38-point win over San Antonio in Paris, helping the Pacers build momentum before returning home. The Pacers have been dominant at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, posting a 12-7 home record this season.
Indiana has also been solid defensively, ranking 10th in three-point defense while allowing 114.8 points per game. If they can control the pace and force Detroit into tough shots, they have a strong chance to take the season series with a win.
Betting Prediction
The Pacers are favored by 6.5 points, with the total set at 229.5. Indiana has covered in 23 of its 45 games this season, while Detroit has been slightly above .500 against the spread. The Pacers’ offense and home-court advantage make them a solid pick to win and cover.
With Detroit struggling offensively and Indiana playing well defensively, the under is also a strong consideration. The Pistons have failed to top 100 points in two of their last four games, and Indiana’s defense could make scoring difficult once again.
Pick: Pacers -6.5 and Under 229.5
