Fri Jan 16 23:00:00 UTC 2026: # Pelicans and Pacers Set to Clash, Pacers Favored Despite Injuries

The Story:
The New Orleans Pelicans are preparing to face off against the Indiana Pacers on Friday, January 17, 2026, in Indianapolis. The Pelicans are aiming to sweep the season series after defeating the Brooklyn Nets in their previous game, while the Pacers are looking to rebound from a loss to the Toronto Raptors. Injury concerns plague both teams, with key players sidelined. Oddsmakers favor the Pacers by 4 points, setting the over/under at 241.5 points. The SportsLine Projection Model offers betting advice, suggesting an under on the total points.

Key Points:
* The New Orleans Pelicans (10-33) are playing the Indiana Pacers (9-32) on Friday, January 17, 2026.
* The game will be held at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis at 7 p.m. ET.
* Herbert Jones and Jose Alvarado are out for the Pelicans due to injuries.
* Bennedict Mathurin and Isaiah Jackson are sidelined for the Pacers.
* Indiana is favored by 4 points, with an over/under of 241.5 points.
* The SportsLine Projection Model suggests betting the Under on the total points, projecting 239 combined points.
* The SportsLine Projection Model has a history of accurate NBA predictions, yielding over $10,000 in betting profit for $100 players over eight seasons.

Key Takeaways:
* Both the Pelicans and Pacers are struggling this season with similar records, making this matchup a battle of struggling teams.
* Injuries will play a significant role in the game’s outcome, impacting both team’s performance.
* Betting models are pointing towards a low-scoring game, potentially influenced by the absence of key offensive players.
* The Pacers are slight favorites playing on their home court.
* The SportsLine Projection Model has a strong track record, offering potentially valuable betting insights.

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