Indiana Pacers vs Orlando Magic preview: Start time, where to watch, injury report, betting odds December 23
The Indiana Pacers host the Orlando Magic tonight in their final game before Christmas this year. The Magic embarrassed the Pacers earlier this season in Indianapolis.
Both teams are currently in a downswing. The Pacers have lost five of their last six games while the Magic are on a four-game losing streak. Each squad will hope to get back on track tonight and climb the Eastern Conference standings.
Viewing and Betting Information
Tip off time: 7 p.m. Eastern Time
Location: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, Indiana
Where to watch: NBA League Pass, Bally Sports Indiana, Bally Sports+, Bally Sports Florida
Spread and Over/Under: The Pacers are slight favorites as they are currently -1.5 in the SI Sportsbook. The over/under for the game is 242.5.
Pacers vs Magic Injury Report
For the Pacers, Tyrese Haliburton (left ankle sprain) and Jalen Smith (left knee bone bruise and left heel contusion) are questionable. Smith returned from injury earlier this week but didn't play Thursday on the second night of a back to back. Kendall Brown, Oscar Tshiebwe, and Isaiah Wong are questionable as a part of their two-way deals.
For the Magic, Markelle Fultz, Kevon Harris, Jett Howard, and Trevelin Queen are out. Joe Ingles and Jalen Suggs are questionable.
Key Matchup
Bruce Brown vs Franz Wager: Against a giant Magic lineup, the Pacers will have to give up size somewhere. It will likely be in the Brown vs Wagner matchup, which is similar to where the Pacers dealt with size issues the last time these squads faced off.
Fortunately for Indiana, Brown's playmaking has been a weapon at times when he can get into the paint against players with a higher center of gravity. He had six assists against Charlotte this week and nine against Milwaukee 10 days ago. He can win this matchup if his offensive attacks are effective and he battles on defense.
- James Johnson back with Indiana Pacers to provide wisdom and toughness. CLICK HERE.
- The Pacers can't just hope to outscore teams and win — their defense must get better. CLICK HERE.
- Pacers guard Isaiah Wong developing his point guard skills in the G League. CLICK HERE.
- Indiana Pacers drop game in Memphis during Ja Morant's home return for Grizzlies. CLICK HERE.
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