The Pacers look to make it three in a row tonight against the Hornets in Charlotte. Coming off a win against the Magic, the team should be feeling pretty good about itself.

While things are still a bit clunky for the league's former best offense – not to mention the complete decimation of its center depth – witnessing the reemergence of Bennedict Mathurin and the blossoming of Jarace Walker is like water in a desert for Pacers fans.

Walker had the best game of his young career last time out, going a perfect 7-7 from the field and making plays all over the court.

Somehow, Walker wasn't the team's only 7-7 man, as TJ McConnell accomplished the feat as well. Together, they contributed to a bench unit that shot a scorching 90% from the field.

Mathurin, for his part, continued to thrive as a starter, putting up a points-rebounds double-double.

Mathurin's rebounding has been a blessing for the Pacers of late. He's averaging nearly nine a game over the last week, making him one of the best among guards.

His other preternatural skill – other than bucket getting – is drawing fouls. He's currently getting a whistle on almost one out of every four shots he takes. That rate seems unsustainable but his aggression is being rewarded so he should keep his foot on the gas.

While Haliburton is still looking like a shell of himself, he came through in the clutch with a big three.

Clutch plays have been his saving grace this year as he plays through what was reported earlier this week to be a lingering back issue.

Against Charlotte tonight, both teams should be able to score. Though neither side is playing particularly great defense so far this season, the Pacers are closer to average. Unfortunately for Charlotte, the Pacers are still pretty effiencient offensively, whereas the home team has struggled on both sides of the ball.

The one area where the Pacers can really take advantage of the Hornets is in the halfcourt. Indy boasts the most efficient offense in that area, while Charlotte's defense is one of the worst.

Injuries

How to Watch

Tipoff is at 7:00 PM ET.

TV: FanDuel Sports Network, NBA League Pass

Radio: 93.5/107.5 The Fan

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