Basketball fans are in for a treat this Thursday, April 10, 2025, as the Indiana Pacers host the Cleveland Cavaliers at 7:00 PM EDT (8:00 PM Brasília time) in a pivotal NBA regular-season matchup. The game will unfold at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, a venue renowned for its electric atmosphere and a capacity crowd expected to exceed 17,000. With both teams vying for supremacy in the Eastern Conference, this clash carries significant weight as the season nears its climax. The Pacers, riding a five-game winning streak, aim to upset the conference-leading Cavaliers, who boast a dominant 62-16 record. For viewers in the United States and beyond, multiple streaming and broadcast options ensure no one misses the action, spotlighting stars like Tyrese Haliburton and Donovan Mitchell.
This matchup pits two franchises with rich legacies and contrasting styles against each other. Under coach Rick Carlisle, the Pacers have honed a balanced attack and a stingy defense, allowing just 98 points per game over their last three outings. Meanwhile, the Cavaliers, guided by Kenny Atkinson, lead the league with an explosive offense averaging 122.9 points per game, complemented by a defense conceding 111.4 points. Their rivalry, spanning 212 encounters, adds extra intrigue, with the Pacers holding a slim historical edge. Tickets for the game are nearly sold out, reflecting the high anticipation in Indianapolis, where fans are eager to see if their team can topple the East’s top seed.
Weather in Indianapolis tonight will be chilly, with temperatures hovering between 36°F and 43°F (2°C to 6°C) under partly cloudy skies. While the indoor nature of the game shields it from the elements, fans heading to the arena should bundle up. The Gainbridge Fieldhouse opens its doors at 5:00 PM EDT, offering pre-game festivities, dining options, and an ambiance primed to amplify the stakes of this Eastern Conference battle.
Where to watch live and broadcast options
Viewers eager to catch the Pacers vs. Cavaliers showdown have several choices. The game will air live on the NBA League Pass, the league’s official streaming service, featuring English commentary and compatibility with devices like smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs. Amazon Prime Video also offers the broadcast, delivering high-quality visuals starting at 7:00 PM EDT. Sports bars across major U.S. cities, such as New York and Chicago, are expected to screen the game, creating a lively setting for group viewing. The NBA League Pass enhances the experience with on-demand replays and real-time stats for subscribers.
Social media platforms like X are buzzing with pre-game chatter, as fans and analysts share predictions and highlights. For those in Indianapolis, the in-person experience at Gainbridge Fieldhouse promises to be unmatched, with the home crowd known for turning the arena into a fortress. Whether online or on-site, the game’s accessibility ensures basketball enthusiasts can follow every dribble and dunk.
Probable lineups and key performers
The Indiana Pacers are set to field a strong starting five, based on their latest outing—a 104-98 win over the Washington Wizards. Rick Carlisle is likely to start Tyrese Haliburton at point guard, Andrew Nembhard alongside him, Bennedict Mathurin on the wing, Pascal Siakam at power forward, and Myles Turner anchoring the center position. Haliburton, the league’s assist leader, averages over 20 points and 10 assists per game, orchestrating the Pacers’ offense with precision. Siakam, contributing 20.4 points and 10 rebounds per night, brings versatility that challenges opponents on both ends.
For the Cavaliers, Kenny Atkinson is expected to stick with the lineup that crushed the Los Angeles Lakers 134-110 in their last game. The starting five should feature Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell in the backcourt, Isaac Okoro at small forward, Evan Mobley at power forward, and Jarrett Allen at center. Mitchell, the team’s scoring machine, averages 28 points per game, posing a constant threat, while Garland’s 7.8 assists per game showcase his playmaking prowess. Emoni Bates remains sidelined with a knee injury, the only notable absence for Cleveland.
Injuries and lineup uncertainties
Injuries are a concern for the Pacers heading into this matchup. Isaiah Jackson, a key power forward, is out indefinitely with an Achilles injury, leaving Myles Turner to shoulder more defensive responsibility in the paint. Aaron Nesmith, another wing player, is also sidelined with an injury, and Ben Sheppard is listed as questionable due to minor muscle discomfort, with his status to be determined closer to tip-off. Despite these setbacks, the Pacers’ depth has kept them competitive.
The Cavaliers enjoy a healthier roster, with Emoni Bates as their sole confirmed absentee. His limited role in the rotation minimizes the impact of his absence, and Cleveland’s strategic management of player minutes has kept their stars fresh. This advantage could prove decisive as the game wears on, especially against a depleted Pacers squad.
Historical rivalry between Pacers and Cavaliers
The Pacers and Cavaliers have clashed 212 times in NBA history, with Indiana edging out Cleveland 108-104 in the all-time series. Recent matchups favor the Cavaliers, who won three of the last five meetings, including a 129-120 victory on April 12, 2024, powered by Darius Garland’s standout performance. The Pacers countered with wins like a 111-105 triumph on December 24, 2024, showcasing their resilience.
Offensively, the Cavaliers hold a slight edge in recent games, averaging 116.2 points to the Pacers’ 114.8. Memorable blowouts dot their history, such as Indiana’s 132-98 rout in 1993 and Cleveland’s 35-point thrashing in Indianapolis in 2018. This competitive backdrop suggests tonight’s game could hinge on execution and clutch plays.
Recent form and team momentum
The Pacers enter the game in fine form, boasting a five-game winning streak that has them fifth in the Eastern Conference. Their last five results include:
- 104-98 win over the Washington Wizards
- 116-105 victory against the Chicago Bulls (preseason)
- 111-105 win over the Golden State Warriors
- 103-99 triumph against the Sacramento Kings
- Win over the Denver Nuggets (score unavailable)
The Cavaliers, atop the East with a 62-16 record, have been nearly unstoppable. Their last five games feature:
- 134-110 rout of the Los Angeles Lakers
- 129-120 win over the Pacers
- 116-105 victory against the Chicago Bulls
- 128-102 blowout of the Utah Jazz
- Win over the Portland Trail Blazers (score unavailable)
Predictions and game outlook
Experts lean toward the Cavaliers as slight favorites, with betting odds at 1.12 compared to 3.94 for the Pacers, reflecting Cleveland’s superior record and offensive firepower. However, Indiana’s home-court advantage and defensive resurgence could level the playing field. Analysts predict a high-scoring affair, with both teams likely exceeding 115 points, given their offensive trends. The matchup between Haliburton and Mitchell is a focal point, as their performances could tip the scales.
The Pacers’ defense, holding opponents to 98 points recently, faces a stern test against Cleveland’s league-leading attack. Conversely, the Cavaliers’ depth and rotation strategy might give them an edge in the later stages. Indiana will need to capitalize on fast breaks and three-point shooting to keep pace with the visitors.
Tickets and Gainbridge Fieldhouse experience
Tickets for the game are available through the Pacers’ official website and platforms like Ticketmaster, ranging from $25 to $150 depending on seating. High demand has left few seats unsold, particularly in prime sections near the court. The Gainbridge Fieldhouse enhances the experience with dining options, merchandise stands, and pre-game events starting at 5:00 PM EDT.
The Pacers’ fanbase, averaging over 15,000 attendees per game this season, is expected to pack the arena, creating a raucous atmosphere. Indianapolis’s public transit system, IndyGo, offers convenient access, recommended due to potential traffic congestion around game time.
Fun facts about the matchup
Here are some tidbits to enrich the game’s narrative:
- Donovan Mitchell once dropped 40 points against the Pacers in 2023.
- Tyrese Haliburton leads the NBA in assists this season, averaging over 10 per game.
- The Gainbridge Fieldhouse has welcomed over 300,000 fans this regular season.
- Cleveland’s largest win over Indiana in Indianapolis was by 35 points in 2018.
These nuggets highlight the individual brilliance and historical stakes that could shape tonight’s outcome.
Officiating and game management
The NBA has yet to announce the officiating crew, but seasoned referees like James Capers, Scott Foster, or Marc Davis are likely candidates given the game’s importance. Video review will be available for disputed calls, ensuring fairness in what promises to be a physical contest. Past games between these teams have seen minimal technical fouls, suggesting a focus on fluid play.
Coaching duel: Carlisle vs. Atkinson
Rick Carlisle, a 2011 NBA champion with the Dallas Mavericks, brings decades of experience to the Pacers’ bench. His defensive tweaks have fueled Indiana’s recent surge. Kenny Atkinson, in his first season with Cleveland, has turned the Cavaliers into an offensive juggernaut since taking over in 2024. Their tactical battle—Carlisle’s adjustments versus Atkinson’s innovation—will be a subplot to watch.
Upcoming schedule for both teams
The game fits into a busy stretch for both squads. The Pacers’ next games are:
- Detroit Pistons on April 17
- Cleveland Cavaliers on April 20
- Minnesota Timberwolves on April 23
The Cavaliers face:
- Chicago Bulls on April 15
- Indiana Pacers on April 20
- Philadelphia 76ers on April 25
These matchups will shape their playoff seeding as the regular season winds down.
Playoff implications and standings
With the postseason looming, this game could shift the Eastern Conference landscape. The Cavaliers aim to lock in the top seed and home-court advantage, while the Pacers seek to climb to fourth and avoid an early matchup with a powerhouse. Every possession tonight carries playoff ramifications.
Players to watch in Indianapolis
Beyond Haliburton and Mitchell, Pascal Siakam’s two-way play and Evan Mobley’s defensive tenacity could steal the spotlight. Darius Garland’s playmaking, Myles Turner’s paint presence, and Jarrett Allen’s consistency will also influence the game’s flow.
Fan atmosphere and energy
The Gainbridge Fieldhouse crowd, a cornerstone of Indianapolis’s basketball culture, will be out in force. The city’s hoops heritage—from the Indiana Fever to college legends—fuels a passionate fanbase ready to rattle the Cavaliers.

Basketball fans are in for a treat this Thursday, April 10, 2025, as the Indiana Pacers host the Cleveland Cavaliers at 7:00 PM EDT (8:00 PM Brasília time) in a pivotal NBA regular-season matchup. The game will unfold at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, a venue renowned for its electric atmosphere and a capacity crowd expected to exceed 17,000. With both teams vying for supremacy in the Eastern Conference, this clash carries significant weight as the season nears its climax. The Pacers, riding a five-game winning streak, aim to upset the conference-leading Cavaliers, who boast a dominant 62-16 record. For viewers in the United States and beyond, multiple streaming and broadcast options ensure no one misses the action, spotlighting stars like Tyrese Haliburton and Donovan Mitchell.
This matchup pits two franchises with rich legacies and contrasting styles against each other. Under coach Rick Carlisle, the Pacers have honed a balanced attack and a stingy defense, allowing just 98 points per game over their last three outings. Meanwhile, the Cavaliers, guided by Kenny Atkinson, lead the league with an explosive offense averaging 122.9 points per game, complemented by a defense conceding 111.4 points. Their rivalry, spanning 212 encounters, adds extra intrigue, with the Pacers holding a slim historical edge. Tickets for the game are nearly sold out, reflecting the high anticipation in Indianapolis, where fans are eager to see if their team can topple the East’s top seed.
Weather in Indianapolis tonight will be chilly, with temperatures hovering between 36°F and 43°F (2°C to 6°C) under partly cloudy skies. While the indoor nature of the game shields it from the elements, fans heading to the arena should bundle up. The Gainbridge Fieldhouse opens its doors at 5:00 PM EDT, offering pre-game festivities, dining options, and an ambiance primed to amplify the stakes of this Eastern Conference battle.
Where to watch live and broadcast options
Viewers eager to catch the Pacers vs. Cavaliers showdown have several choices. The game will air live on the NBA League Pass, the league’s official streaming service, featuring English commentary and compatibility with devices like smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs. Amazon Prime Video also offers the broadcast, delivering high-quality visuals starting at 7:00 PM EDT. Sports bars across major U.S. cities, such as New York and Chicago, are expected to screen the game, creating a lively setting for group viewing. The NBA League Pass enhances the experience with on-demand replays and real-time stats for subscribers.
Social media platforms like X are buzzing with pre-game chatter, as fans and analysts share predictions and highlights. For those in Indianapolis, the in-person experience at Gainbridge Fieldhouse promises to be unmatched, with the home crowd known for turning the arena into a fortress. Whether online or on-site, the game’s accessibility ensures basketball enthusiasts can follow every dribble and dunk.
Probable lineups and key performers
The Indiana Pacers are set to field a strong starting five, based on their latest outing—a 104-98 win over the Washington Wizards. Rick Carlisle is likely to start Tyrese Haliburton at point guard, Andrew Nembhard alongside him, Bennedict Mathurin on the wing, Pascal Siakam at power forward, and Myles Turner anchoring the center position. Haliburton, the league’s assist leader, averages over 20 points and 10 assists per game, orchestrating the Pacers’ offense with precision. Siakam, contributing 20.4 points and 10 rebounds per night, brings versatility that challenges opponents on both ends.
For the Cavaliers, Kenny Atkinson is expected to stick with the lineup that crushed the Los Angeles Lakers 134-110 in their last game. The starting five should feature Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell in the backcourt, Isaac Okoro at small forward, Evan Mobley at power forward, and Jarrett Allen at center. Mitchell, the team’s scoring machine, averages 28 points per game, posing a constant threat, while Garland’s 7.8 assists per game showcase his playmaking prowess. Emoni Bates remains sidelined with a knee injury, the only notable absence for Cleveland.
Injuries and lineup uncertainties
Injuries are a concern for the Pacers heading into this matchup. Isaiah Jackson, a key power forward, is out indefinitely with an Achilles injury, leaving Myles Turner to shoulder more defensive responsibility in the paint. Aaron Nesmith, another wing player, is also sidelined with an injury, and Ben Sheppard is listed as questionable due to minor muscle discomfort, with his status to be determined closer to tip-off. Despite these setbacks, the Pacers’ depth has kept them competitive.
The Cavaliers enjoy a healthier roster, with Emoni Bates as their sole confirmed absentee. His limited role in the rotation minimizes the impact of his absence, and Cleveland’s strategic management of player minutes has kept their stars fresh. This advantage could prove decisive as the game wears on, especially against a depleted Pacers squad.
Historical rivalry between Pacers and Cavaliers
The Pacers and Cavaliers have clashed 212 times in NBA history, with Indiana edging out Cleveland 108-104 in the all-time series. Recent matchups favor the Cavaliers, who won three of the last five meetings, including a 129-120 victory on April 12, 2024, powered by Darius Garland’s standout performance. The Pacers countered with wins like a 111-105 triumph on December 24, 2024, showcasing their resilience.
Offensively, the Cavaliers hold a slight edge in recent games, averaging 116.2 points to the Pacers’ 114.8. Memorable blowouts dot their history, such as Indiana’s 132-98 rout in 1993 and Cleveland’s 35-point thrashing in Indianapolis in 2018. This competitive backdrop suggests tonight’s game could hinge on execution and clutch plays.
Recent form and team momentum
The Pacers enter the game in fine form, boasting a five-game winning streak that has them fifth in the Eastern Conference. Their last five results include:
- 104-98 win over the Washington Wizards
- 116-105 victory against the Chicago Bulls (preseason)
- 111-105 win over the Golden State Warriors
- 103-99 triumph against the Sacramento Kings
- Win over the Denver Nuggets (score unavailable)
The Cavaliers, atop the East with a 62-16 record, have been nearly unstoppable. Their last five games feature:
- 134-110 rout of the Los Angeles Lakers
- 129-120 win over the Pacers
- 116-105 victory against the Chicago Bulls
- 128-102 blowout of the Utah Jazz
- Win over the Portland Trail Blazers (score unavailable)
Predictions and game outlook
Experts lean toward the Cavaliers as slight favorites, with betting odds at 1.12 compared to 3.94 for the Pacers, reflecting Cleveland’s superior record and offensive firepower. However, Indiana’s home-court advantage and defensive resurgence could level the playing field. Analysts predict a high-scoring affair, with both teams likely exceeding 115 points, given their offensive trends. The matchup between Haliburton and Mitchell is a focal point, as their performances could tip the scales.
The Pacers’ defense, holding opponents to 98 points recently, faces a stern test against Cleveland’s league-leading attack. Conversely, the Cavaliers’ depth and rotation strategy might give them an edge in the later stages. Indiana will need to capitalize on fast breaks and three-point shooting to keep pace with the visitors.
Tickets and Gainbridge Fieldhouse experience
Tickets for the game are available through the Pacers’ official website and platforms like Ticketmaster, ranging from $25 to $150 depending on seating. High demand has left few seats unsold, particularly in prime sections near the court. The Gainbridge Fieldhouse enhances the experience with dining options, merchandise stands, and pre-game events starting at 5:00 PM EDT.
The Pacers’ fanbase, averaging over 15,000 attendees per game this season, is expected to pack the arena, creating a raucous atmosphere. Indianapolis’s public transit system, IndyGo, offers convenient access, recommended due to potential traffic congestion around game time.
Fun facts about the matchup
Here are some tidbits to enrich the game’s narrative:
- Donovan Mitchell once dropped 40 points against the Pacers in 2023.
- Tyrese Haliburton leads the NBA in assists this season, averaging over 10 per game.
- The Gainbridge Fieldhouse has welcomed over 300,000 fans this regular season.
- Cleveland’s largest win over Indiana in Indianapolis was by 35 points in 2018.
These nuggets highlight the individual brilliance and historical stakes that could shape tonight’s outcome.
Officiating and game management
The NBA has yet to announce the officiating crew, but seasoned referees like James Capers, Scott Foster, or Marc Davis are likely candidates given the game’s importance. Video review will be available for disputed calls, ensuring fairness in what promises to be a physical contest. Past games between these teams have seen minimal technical fouls, suggesting a focus on fluid play.
Coaching duel: Carlisle vs. Atkinson
Rick Carlisle, a 2011 NBA champion with the Dallas Mavericks, brings decades of experience to the Pacers’ bench. His defensive tweaks have fueled Indiana’s recent surge. Kenny Atkinson, in his first season with Cleveland, has turned the Cavaliers into an offensive juggernaut since taking over in 2024. Their tactical battle—Carlisle’s adjustments versus Atkinson’s innovation—will be a subplot to watch.
Upcoming schedule for both teams
The game fits into a busy stretch for both squads. The Pacers’ next games are:
- Detroit Pistons on April 17
- Cleveland Cavaliers on April 20
- Minnesota Timberwolves on April 23
The Cavaliers face:
- Chicago Bulls on April 15
- Indiana Pacers on April 20
- Philadelphia 76ers on April 25
These matchups will shape their playoff seeding as the regular season winds down.
Playoff implications and standings
With the postseason looming, this game could shift the Eastern Conference landscape. The Cavaliers aim to lock in the top seed and home-court advantage, while the Pacers seek to climb to fourth and avoid an early matchup with a powerhouse. Every possession tonight carries playoff ramifications.
Players to watch in Indianapolis
Beyond Haliburton and Mitchell, Pascal Siakam’s two-way play and Evan Mobley’s defensive tenacity could steal the spotlight. Darius Garland’s playmaking, Myles Turner’s paint presence, and Jarrett Allen’s consistency will also influence the game’s flow.
Fan atmosphere and energy
The Gainbridge Fieldhouse crowd, a cornerstone of Indianapolis’s basketball culture, will be out in force. The city’s hoops heritage—from the Indiana Fever to college legends—fuels a passionate fanbase ready to rattle the Cavaliers.
