The Mavericks without Luka Doncic are the Smiths without Morrissey -- and it appears Dallas will not have Doncic for this one as he's listed as doubtful with a lower-back injury. Reserve center Willie Cauley-Stein remains in COVID protocols and trade addition JJ Redick will not debut yet for the Mavs. Indiana is healthy and playing better of late in winning three of four. The Pacers may well win outright, and I was tempted to take them on the moneyline.

The Pacers offer nice value at +4.5 or greater against Luka and the Mavericks. I like that the Pacers didn't make any moves at the trade deadline as that is one less distraction for tonight's game. My simulations make the Mavericks just -2.6 home favorites. Take the points.