I'm on The Celtics -9.5 in Game 1 vs the Pacers for these reasons:

- They've covered both big spread openings to their last 2 series this playoffs. Covered -14.5 vs Miami, and -12.5 vs he Cavaliers.

- Short rest for the Pacers who had to go 7 games vs New York in New York. Now having one days rest while Boston had essentially a week off, waiting for their opponents to be chosen.

- Celtics are undefeated this season vs Indiana in Boston. Covering and beating them as -13 point favorites, -8 point favorites. Celtics are 3-2 in their overall 5- meeting during the regular season.

- 27th ranked defensive unit vs the Celtics #2 offensive unit. This is why the Knicks had so much success vs Indiana even though NY was down so many players. Defensive is going to win Boston this series, starting with Game 1.

- I expect a much better offensive output from Celtics who had to play two much better defenses before having to play this series vs Indiana. Cavs and Miami are the better defenses in the Eastern Conference, so a step down should improve things for Jayson Tatum Specifically who has been mediocre this playoff rub.

Official Play: Celtics -9.5

Side Bet: Under 222

Hail Mary: Jrue Holiday over 11.5 points