Date: Tuesday, February 25, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM Eastern Standard Time (EST)
Venue: Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis
Live Stream: ESPN

Game overview:

The Indiana Pacers are set to host the Denver Nuggets on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 PM Eastern Standard Time (EST). For fans looking to catch the action live, the game will be broadcast on ESPN and available for streaming on the ESPN app.

Team Comparison:

The Denver Nuggets enter this matchup with a season record of 37 wins and 20 losses, placing them third in the Western Conference. They boast a potent offense, averaging 121.3 points per game, ranking them third in the NBA. Their field goal percentage stands at 50.8%, and they excel from beyond the arc, hitting 38.1% of their three-point attempts. Defensively, the Nuggets are solid, allowing 112.3 points per game.

The Indiana Pacers, on the other hand, hold a record of 32 wins and 23 losses, positioning them fourth in the Eastern Conference. They average 116.2 points per game and have a field goal percentage of 48.8%. While their three-point shooting is respectable at 36.8%, their defense has room for improvement, conceding 113.5 points per game.

Key Players:

For the Nuggets, Nikola Jokić continues to be a dominant force. The reigning MVP is averaging 29.4 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game, showcasing his versatility and playmaking ability. Jamal Murray has also been instrumental, contributing 21.4 points per game and providing a scoring spark.

The Pacers rely heavily on Tyrese Haliburton, who leads the team with 18.1 points and 8.6 assists per game. Myles Turner anchors the defense, averaging 2.7 blocks per game, while also contributing 14.3 points and 7.8 rebounds.

Coaching:

Michael Malone has been at the helm for the Nuggets since 2015, leading the team to multiple playoff appearances and a championship in 2023. His leadership has been pivotal in developing the team’s offensive and defensive strategies.

Rick Carlisle, the Pacers’ head coach, returned to the team in 2021 after a successful tenure with the Dallas Mavericks. Known for his tactical acumen, Carlisle has been instrumental in developing young talent and implementing a balanced offensive system.

Injury Updates:

The Nuggets will be without swingman Peyton Watson, who is sidelined due to a knee sprain. Watson has been averaging 8.1 points and 3.4 rebounds per game this season. Vlatko Cancar (knee) has been ruled out for Monday’s game against the Pacers. Da Ron Holmes II Nuggets head coach Michael Malone said that Holmes (Achilles) was able to participate in portions of Wednesday’s practice. Aaron Gordon (calf) is probable for ,onday’s games againsts the Pacers. Jamal Murray (Knee) is listed as probable for Monday’s game against the Pacers.

The Pacers have a clean bill of health, with no significant injuries reported ahead of the game.

Win Probability:

According to recent analyses, the Nuggets are favored to win this matchup, with a point spread of -3.5.

Team Stats Comparison:

Star Player Comparison:

Prediction:

Given the Nuggets’ superior offensive efficiency and the absence of Watson, the Pacers will need to rely on their home-court advantage and defensive prowess to secure a victory. While the Nuggets are favored, the Pacers have the potential to pull off an upset, especially if their key players perform at a high level.