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The Washington Wizards are set to take on the Indiana Pacers in the first game of the 2022-23 NBA Season. The Pacers will host the encounter at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Wednesday (October 19).
Both teams play in the Eastern Conference, where Washington has a slight edge in the head-to-head record against Indiana (3-2).
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Washington did not qualify for the playoffs last season. They finished 12th in the conference with a disappointing 35-47 overall record. At home, the Wizards still had more wins than losses (21-20) but it was their poor away performance (14-27) that cost them. The team averaged 108.6 points per game but conceded 112.0 points per game.
Bradley Beal and Rui Hachimura are fit and ready to lift the team's offense. However, the defense is something they would like to work on.
Washington Wizards vs. Indiana Pacers: Betting Odds
Indiana was even worse compared to Washington. They finished 13th in the conference with a 25-57 overall record.
The only positive for the Pacers has been Tyrese Haliburton, who was traded from Sacramento in the second half of the season. He is now an integral part of the team and was also amongst the top stealers last season. He has recovered from a small injury that he sustained during the pre-season game and will start the season opener.
The Pacers were averaging 111.9 PPG going forward, but struggled defensively at 114.9.
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Washington Wizards vs. Indiana Pacers: Match Details
Fixture: Washington Wizards @ Indiana Pacers
Date & Time: Wednesday, October 19, 07:00 p.m EDT
Venue: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, Indiana
Washington Wizards vs. Indiana Pacers: Pick
Both teams will look to start off with a win as they have a tough season ahead. Tyrese Haliburton and Buddy Hield will be tasked with matching Bradley Beal and the entire Washington offense. Hield is a great three-point shooter and if gets going, the game can shift the tides in a single quarter.
Bradley is one of the best free-flowing scorers in the league. The Pacers should stop him from having a chance at winning.
Pick: Buddy Hield Total Threes Over 3.5 (+140)
Washington Wizards vs. Indiana Pacers: Prediction
The way both teams have played so far, it looks like an even match. However, Indiana were on a 10-game losing streak when they finished the season. This is something they would love to change in the season opener. Playing at home gives them an advantage and they have what it takes to beat the Washington Wizards. Expect an entertaining encounter between the teams.
Prediction: Bradley Beal Total Points, Rebounds & Assists Over 32.5 (-125)
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