2025 NBA Playoffs Showdowns: Can the Underdog Upset in Pacers-Cavaliers Game 1 and Warriors-Rockets Game 7?

If Haliburton is playing well, the Cavs have no one to guard him, whereas Pacers wing Aaron Nesmith and SG Andrew Nembhard are solid perimeter defenders. Will Cleveland All-Star SG Donovan Mitchell “get his?” Probably. But, at least Indy will make him work. Haliburton could potentially get in the paint whenever he wants in this series. 

In this fast-paced, 3-point shooting era of the NBA, -8.5 isn’t a big spread to cover. However, that works both ways for this matchup since Indiana can also sneak in the backdoor by draining 3-pointers. Regardless, between continuity, coaching, and roster depth, the Pacers won’t need to sneak in the backdoor to cover Game 1. 

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