What's there to say about the Pacers other than they have been on a tear over the last six weeks? They are 17-5 since mid-December and have climbed their way to sole possession of the 4th seed in the Eastern Conference standings.

It's certainly been a team effort but today I want to shout out Pascal Siakam, who will be representing the team in the All-Star game. He's been everything we could have asked for when we traded for him a year ago. Not only is he a model of consistency, he's a rare post-mismatch in the 5-out era. His ability to punish switches gives us tremendous versatility and an element that will be invaluable in the playoffs.

The Pacers will be put to the test as they embark on their first West Coast road trip of the new year. It starts tonight against the Utah Jazz who got a win in their last game after eight straight losses.

Though Utah is significantly under matched from a talent perspective, playing at high altitude is never easy. Case in point: the Pacers are 1-4 in Salt Lake City over the last five years.

Injuries

Turner is out after rolling his ankle against the Hawks. Earlier in the season this would have been a major talking point but Thomas Bryant has proven to be more than capable at filling in.

It likely means Jarace Walker will get some run tonight as Obi Toppin will be forced to play backup center.

How to Watch

Tipoff is at 9:00 PM ET.

TV: FanDuel Sports Network, NBA League Pass

Radio: 93.5/107.5 The Fan

See ya in the comments!

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