The grind don't stop. Win or lose, the NBA schedule doesn't give you much time to dwell on the last game. Over the past few weeks the Pacers have more or less been a .500 team. In fact, they are 3-3 over their last six games and 6-6 over their last twelve.

I suppose treading water is better than the bottom falling out like it has in recent seasons around this time of year. The frustrating thing – other than the higher expectations for this team – is that the Pacers aren't necessarily playing bad basketball. They simply aren't closing out games.

During the last six games, the team ranks ninth in points per possession differential. Oddly, their 116 points scored per 100 possessions is right at the league average during that stretch. It's their sixth best 109.6 points surrendered that is buoying their net rating. The teams directly above and below them in net rating, Sacramento and Orlando respectively, are both 5-2 over the same stretch.

So why are the Pacers failing to close out games when they have the opportunity? Their closer is going through the worst slump of his life. I'm starting to feel like a farmer in a drought looking for any sign from the heavens that rain is on the way as I wait for Tyrese to regain his form. While it hasn't been easy, I'm still thankful he's our franchise player. If you listen to him below, you'll hear nothing but maturity.

For a more in depth analysis of why Tyrese is struggling, I'll defer to C. Coop who has created a typically well researched and thoughtful video analyzing what's no longer working for Haliburton.

Perhaps tonight will be an opportunity to end the slump. The Pistons have had no luck stopping the Pacers' fast paced attack this season, who have won the previous three matchups by averaging 132 points per game. Haliburton, for his part, is averaging almost 22 points and 13 assists while shooting 45.3% from the floor and 41.4% from three against Detroit.

The Pistons are riding a three game losing streak and are decimated by injuries. Ausar Thompson and Isaiah Stewart have just been ruled out for the year. In addition to Thompson and Stewart, Cade Cunningham, Simone Fontecchio, and Quentin Grimes all either did not play or left early in the Pistons' last game.

Even the inconsistent Pacers shouldn't have a problem securing a win tonight.

Injuries

Still no word on whether Doug McDermott, who could help Haliburton by bringing some movement shooting gravity back into the team, will play but he's status has been upgraded.

UPDATE: Carlisle hopes McBuckets will play.

The Pistons have ruled out Fontecchio and Taj Gibson.

How to Watch

Tipoff is at 7:00 PM ET.

TV: Bally Sports Indiana, NBA League Pass

Radio: 93.5/107.5 The Fan

See ya in the comments!

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