Los Angeles Lakers vs Indiana Pacers Prediction & Picks - NBA

Prediction published on 3/25/25, 10:33 PM  by Paul Tamayo | Modified on 3/25/25 at 11:12 PM in NBA Picks

The Los Angeles Lakers (43-28) visit the Indiana Pacers (42-29) on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

The Lakers have lost their last three games by an average margin of 24 points. They are struggling mightily on both ends of the floor. Their offensive rating has gone down from 115.1 to 108.4, while their defensive rating has decreased from 114.3 to 133.6.  Both LeBron James and Luka Doncic played in the last two games, but the Lakers are still finding it difficult to get their shots.

Meanwhile, the Pacers are thriving as of late. They are on a five-game winning streak, having won twice against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Tyrese Haliburton has returned to All-Star form and they're getting timely contributions from Obi Toppin off the bench.

Moreover, the Pacers' defense has become impenetrable in the last three games. During that span, they've held opponents to under 103 points. Their defensive rating has increased to a superb 99.7, a testament to their improved commitment on that end of the floor.

With the Lakers struggling to get their offense going, they'll face more trouble against the punishing Pacers defense. The purple-and-gold needs more from Luka and LeBron to turn the tide against Indiana.