Before the Bucks game, I wrote that I hoped to see two teams going in opposite directions. I got my wish, just a game later than expected, when the Pacers pounded the Heat in Miami. The Pacers played with a levity reminiscent of last year, whereas the Heat appeared to have a Jimmy-Butler-sized anchor swinging from their necks.
Speaking of levity, we got a vintage Ty performance, which means putting up gaudy – nay point gawdy – stats.
in a league of his own 😏#NBAAllStar | https://t.co/T6jmxAY3iX pic.twitter.com/puxfZtXb0n
— Indiana Pacers (@Pacers) January 3, 2025
The Suns
Apparently, the Pacers play their efficiency twins tonight in the Suns. By the numbers at least, the teams are having remarkably similar seasons, though the visitors sit at 15-17 compared to our much better 17-18.


When the teams met recently in Phoenix, the Pacers emerged victorious. Not only will the Suns be looking for revenge, they'll be looking to stop a losing streak that currently sits at three games. They are coming off three days rest so expect them to be ready to play.
In Phoenix's case, that means expect a lot of jump shots and expect them to fall. They take the least shots at the rim in the NBA, but with their perimeter shooting talent, who needs layups?
RayJ Dennis
The newest Pacer got some run with the MadAnts so here's a content dump to familiarize yourself with him.
NBA contracts don’t happen by accident. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at some of the process that’s led RayJ Dennis to signing his first contract with the Pacers. https://t.co/lfmunEpXhu pic.twitter.com/XkYJdy0Qmq
— League Him (@League_Him) January 4, 2025
RayJ Dennis very first possession for the Mad Ants ends with a dime pass, but layup is missed. pic.twitter.com/FAbNqqOBhv
— Tony East (@TonyREast) January 4, 2025
And here's Dennis' first made shot. His first Mad Ants points came at the foul line after drawing contact on a baseline drive. pic.twitter.com/FUjjA2jWMR
— Tony East (@TonyREast) January 4, 2025
Injuries
Carlisle said Nesmith is ramping up his on-the-court work and trying to get back in game shape. However, he said that Nesmith has an unusual ankle sprain and he expects the ramp up period to be more gradual than normal.
Injury Report for tonight’s game vs. the Suns:
— Indiana Pacers (@Pacers) January 4, 2025
Aaron Nesmith - Out (left ankle sprain)
Isaiah Jackson - Out (right Achilles tendon tear)
James Wiseman - Out (left Achilles tendon tear) pic.twitter.com/58u7N4zIXT
Mike Budenholzer says Beal is a game-time decision. https://t.co/0jf944u5yU
— Tony East (@TonyREast) January 4, 2025
How to Watch
Tipoff is at 7:00 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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