The NBA returns with an intriguing matchup as the Indiana Pacers visit the Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday night at 8 PM ET from FedExForum. The Grizzlies, favored by -7.5, are attracting significant betting interest, with 99% of handle and 80% of bets on their side, as well as a strong lean on the Under 229.5 points.

Indiana's recent form has been concerning, suffering a 108-104 loss to Atlanta on Monday, marking their fifth consecutive defeat. The Pacers were severely undermanned, with 11 players out due to injuries—including star Tyrese Haliburton—leaving only six players available, a situation not seen in the NBA for 22 years.

Key highlights from Indiana’s last game include:

• Braden Smith, a second-round rookie, posting a double-double with 19 points and 10 assists.
• The Pacers' unprecedented reliance on just six players, all logging 34+ minutes each.

On the flip side, the Grizzlies are defying expectations with a 6-1 record, bolstered by the standout performance of Cameron Boozer, the third overall pick in the draft. Boozer is averaging 17.4 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game, establishing himself as a favorite for NBA Rookie of the Year.

Memphis's roster updates include:

• Ty Jerome, averaging an impressive 28.2 points per game, recently scored 40 points against New Orleans.
• Reserve guard Scotty Pippen Jr. is out, while backup center Quentin Post is questionable.

As both teams gear up for this pivotal game, the Pacers will look to bounce back, while the Grizzlies aim to continue their surprising ascent in the standings.