The Pacers were in the Eastern Conference finals last season. I think a lot of people have forgotten that. They also have one of the best point guards in the league in Tyrese Haliburton, so there's a lot to be excited about – even if most people don't give them much of a chance to repeat last year's success. Even if that's true, starting the season in Detroit is a nice way to do that. They won and won all four games against the Pistons last season.

Detroit abandoned its head coach after last season despite being owed a lot of money by Monty Williams. I like the move in the sense that it emphasizes that this team needs improvement. I think that will be the case, although that is certainly a very low bar. I really like winger Cade Cunningham, but if he doesn't bring his game to the level of Luka Doncic, I'm not sure this team has enough talent. He may already be at his limit – which is good, but not elite. Jaden Ivey is the guy I'm more excited about. He has better tools.

The markets also expect an improvement. Last year, the Pistons were no closer than -7.5 in a game against Indiana – and even though they lost all of those games, the line here is a little over half that. Detroit came closest with 8 points, with the Pacers having no trouble breaking through the Pistons' defense. I think we'll see that again on Wednesday. Early offense usually takes priority over defense. Expect an easy win for Indiana by more than 120 points (like in all games last season).

Pacers vs. Pistons Prediction: Indiana -5 (-110) available at time of publication. Playable under this number.

If you're looking for a new sportsbook, check out Bet365, the world's leading sportsbook. They have a fantastic sign up offer where you can INSTANTLY get $200 worth of bonus bets from a $5 stake, regardless of whether that bet wins or loses! There is no catch, it really is that simple. Join Bet365 now ⏰ in time to hide or follow our experts' Pacers vs. Pistons predictions.