Golden State Warriors vs Indiana Pacers Predictions, Odds & Picks

• The Golden State Warriors are coming off of a nail-biter of a win on Sunday!
• The Indiana Pacers are surprising many as they sit third in the Eastern Conference!
• Over 92 regular-season meetings, the Pacers edge the Warriors 48 to 44.

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Warriors vs Pacers Predictions and Picks

The Warriors put on a strong showing against a struggling Raptors team in their last match, but Indiana’s thoughtful and efficient game plan isn’t likely to be broken down. Indiana’s advantage on the inside should be the game changer!

Picks:

Indiana Pacers to Win (-143)

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How to Watch Warriors vs Pacers

Head-to-Head: Warriors vs Pacers

Warriors Need to Keep Their Foot on the Gas!

The Golden State Warriors are enjoying a positive run as of late, as they come off of an impressive win over their rivals the Toronto Raptors. While they had much of the game under control early, a late collapse almost sealed their fate.

Despite winning the first three quarters in their last match, the Warriors were outscored 33 to 19 in the fourth quarter against the Raptors. Their 14 point lead surrendered, it took a stout defensive stance and a questionable foul call in their favor to stave off the Raptors. While Stephen Curry struggled, the remaining Warriors squad must step up in order to limit such runs from happening.

Due to Steve Kerr’s game plan, the Warriors seem to be able to find production from some less than likely sources. But in order to defeat a balanced team like the Pacers, Golden State needs consistency throughout the four quarters – especially from their top players.

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Win the Battle in the Paint

The Indiana Pacers are on the second game of a back-to-back, through this Western Conference road trip. While the Kings posed their own unique problems, the Warriors’ shooting is no secret. Where the Pacers can excel is by dominating the paint.

All-Star Domantas Sabonis and center Myles Turner are one of the few big men duos left in today’s NBA. Bruising in the paint, but more than capable on the perimeter, the Warriors have nobody that can match their unique skillsets save for Draymond Green.

Establishing a presence early will be crucial to take this game from the Warriors. While rookie James Wiseman is certainly a concern in the paint, the Pacers’ veteran frontcourt has the ability to take advantage of the second overall pick early.

Warriors Key Player: (G) Stephen Curry

look at this pass from Steph Curry pic.twitter.com/UnAwoy7O6t

— Brady Klopfer (@BradyKlopferNBA) January 9, 2021

We expect Stephen Curry to bounce back in this game against the Indiana Pacers, as it rarely gets worse than his last showing against the Toronto Raptors. Perhaps without a Fred Vanvleet shaped defender facing him, Curry can find his range once again.

In his last match, Stephen Curry posted just 11 points on two of 16 shooting from the field. With the Warriors’ lack of offensive options, Curry has been a focal point for defenses. It’s up to his teammates like Wiggins and Oubre to open up the court for him.

This isn’t to say that Curry fails to contribute though. Curry still contributed nine rebounds and six assists in their most recent win, his impact will be felt regardless of it is optimal or not.

Pacers Key Player: (G) Malcolm Brogdon

Malcolm Brogdon gets to his spot and floats it in for the @Pacers win in OT! pic.twitter.com/Cw2bZGujfG

— NBA (@NBA) January 5, 2021

It seems like ages ago that Indiana Pacers guard Malcolm Brogdon was named Rookie of the Year through his time with the Milwaukee Bucks, but through his first ten games he’s shown that he’s not just a starter, but a deserving All-Star through the first portion of the season.

The 28-year-old guard is posting 23.4 points, 7.2 assists, and 1.8 steals on 49.7% shooting from the field and 47.5% shooting from three. While not the athletic specimen that many seek from their leading guards, Brogdon’s cool-under-fire demeanor is perfect for head coach Nate Bjorkgren’s game plan.

His duties will be doubled on Tuesday night when the Pacers take on the Warriors. Not only will he have to initiate the offense, but also guarding Stephen Curry on and off the ball is an issue for even the best. Attacking and taking advantage of Curry on offense will be crucial.