Indiana Pacers vs Boston Celtics Prediction | 01.21.26

Indiana Pacers vs Boston Celtics Prediction, Odds & NBA Picks | 21-01-2026

This regular-season matchup on January 21, 2026, at 7:30 PM EST in TD Garden, Boston, features the struggling Indiana Pacers (10-34) against the robust Boston Celtics (26-16). The Pacers arrive severely shorthanded, facing a Celtics squad aiming to solidify their Eastern Conference standing.

Indiana Pacers vs Boston Celtics Matchup Preview

Indiana Pacers Key Stats & Trends

The Pacers’ 10-34 record reflects a season marred by significant absences. Their offense relies heavily on Pascal Siakam, who averages 23.6 PPG and 6.9 RPG, along with 4.0 APG. Andrew Nembhard leads in assists with 7.1 APG. However, the absence of key playmakers and scorers severely limits their offensive efficiency and overall team cohesion, making consistent scoring a major challenge.

Injury Report Indiana Pacers

• Bennedict Mathurin (Out): Mathurin is out for Wednesday’s game against the Celtics with a right thumb sprain.
• Obi Toppin (Out): Toppin will undergo surgery to place a screw in his right foot Monday.
• Tyrese Haliburton (Out): Haliburton will miss the entire 2025-26 season while recovering from surgery on his right Achilles tendon.

Boston Celtics Key Stats & Trends

The Celtics maintain a strong 26-16 record, showcasing their depth despite superstar injuries. Jaylen Brown has been exceptional, leading with 29.8 PPG, 6.6 RPG, and 4.7 APG. Neemias Queta anchors the boards with 8.2 RPG, while Derrick White contributes 5.4 APG. This balanced attack and strong defensive presence make them formidable, especially on their home court.

Injury Report Boston Celtics

• Jaylen Brown (Day-to-day): Brown is probable for Wednesday’s game against the Pacers with left hamstring tightness.
• Josh Minott (Out): Minott is out for Wednesday’s game against the Pacers with a sprained left ankle.
• Jayson Tatum (Out): Tatum (Achilles) remains sidelined for this contest.

Indiana Pacers vs Boston Celtics Prediction & Best Bet

The significant injury disparity heavily favors the Celtics. The Pacers are without Tyrese Haliburton for the season, plus Mathurin and Toppin for this game, severely crippling their offensive firepower. While Pascal Siakam will produce, it won’t be enough against a deep Celtics squad. Boston, even without Jayson Tatum, boasts an MVP-caliber Jaylen Brown (probable to play) and strong supporting cast. Their home-court advantage and superior talent will be decisive. Expect the Celtics to dominate both ends of the floor. Our definitive pick is Boston Celtics -10.5 (Spread). Given Boston’s offensive prowess and Indiana’s defensive vulnerabilities exacerbated by injuries, we anticipate this game to exceed the total points line of 225.5, making the pick over.