Jim Feist – Sports Handicapper

The Los Angeles Lakers (43-28) are set to face the Indiana Pacers (42-29) on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET, and the game will be broadcast nationally on ESPN. The Lakers are currently on a three-game losing streak, including a recent 118-106 loss to the Orlando Magic. They are aiming to snap this skid and improve their road performance. LeBron James, despite dealing with a left groin strain, is listed as probable and is expected to play. His leadership, alongside Luka Doncic, will be crucial in this matchup. The Pacers are riding a five-game winning streak and have been formidable at home, boasting a 24-10 record at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Tyrese Haliburton has been instrumental in their recent success, providing significant contributions on both ends of the floor. The Lakers will rely heavily on the performances of LeBron James and Luka Doncic to penetrate the Pacers' defense. The effectiveness of this duo could determine the Lakers' ability to score efficiently. Indiana prefers an up-tempo style of play, which has been effective during their winning streak. The Lakers will need to control the pace to avoid being overwhelmed by the Pacers' fast breaks and quick transitions. This matchup presents contrasting team dynamics, with the Lakers seeking to end their losing streak and the Pacers aiming to extend their winning momentum. I expect the Pacers to dictate the pace of this one and that means a high scoring game. I'm taking the OVER.

The Kent State Golden Flashes and the Loyola Chicago Ramblers are set to clash in the NIT quarterfinals on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at Gentile Arena in Chicago. Both teams enter the matchup with identical 24-11 records, aiming to secure a spot in the tournament's semifinals. The Ramblers concluded their season with a 13-7 record in the Atlantic 10 Conference. They are currently on a two-game winning streak, including a narrow 77-76 victory over San Francisco in the NIT's previous round. Loyola Chicago averages 73.6 points per game, shooting 45.7% from the field, and allows 68.9 points per game defensively. The Golden Flashes finished their Mid-American Conference play with a 12-8 record. They have won their last two games, most recently defeating Stanford 77-75 to advance in the NIT. Kent State averages 73.9 points per game on 43.7% shooting and concedes 68.2 points per game to opponents. Loyola Chicago: Guard Jayden Dawson leads the team with 13.8 points per game, shooting 41.2% from the field. Des Watson has been a significant contributor, averaging 14.4 points over the last ten games. Kent State: Guard Jalen Sullinger tops the scoring chart with 15.8 points per game, maintaining a 42.6% field goal percentage. VonCameron Davis has stepped up recently, averaging 12.5 points in the last ten games. Loyola Chicago averages 8.5 made three-pointers per game, which could challenge Kent State's perimeter defense that allows 7.1 three-pointers per game. Conversely, Kent State scores 5.0 more points per game than Loyola Chicago typically allows, indicating a potential offensive advantage. This quarterfinal matchup features two evenly matched teams with contrasting strengths. I'm taking the points here on Wednesday. Play Kent State.

The Toronto Raptors (25-47) will face the Brooklyn Nets (23-49) on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 PM ET, with television coverage on YES Network and TSN. The Nets are currently on a four-game losing streak and hold a 3-10 record against Atlantic Division opponents. They average 105.3 points per game while allowing 111.5 points to opponents. The Raptors have lost four of their last five games and are 5-8 against Atlantic Division teams. They score an average of 110.4 points per game and concede 115.7 points to opponents. Impact of Injuries: Both teams are dealing with significant injuries to key players, which could affect their rotations and overall performance. The Nets have had difficulty closing out games, losing 18 fourth-quarter leads this season. Addressing late-game execution will be crucial for Brooklyn. Both teams have struggled offensively, with the Nets averaging 105.3 points per game and the Raptors 110.4 points per game. Capitalizing on scoring opportunities will be essential for both sides. I'm passing on the side here today and taking the UNDER with two poor offensive teams. Your free play is on UNDER.