The Pacers are going through a rough stretch. After the magical run in the IST the team looks like it needs a break. The problem is the schedule doesn't care. The Pacers are in the midst of a road trip – or in the ever colorful words of Rick Carlisle, "a shit trip."
... like it does tonight you've got to love the challenge of, now we have to go play the best team in the West tomorrow."
— Dustin Dopirak (@DustinDopirak) December 16, 2023
So far this season, Carlisle has relied heavily on the veterans on the roster, often playing what looks like a playoff rotation. The effect of that strategy appears to be manifesting in tired legs – and poor shooting percentages – from the team's elder statesmen.
Buddy Hield over his last 10 games
— csb (@itsCSB__) December 16, 2023
11.7 PPG
3.8 RPG
2.5 APG
39% FG
29% 3PT
just can't have the inconsistencies, hoping Buddy finds his shot here soon
Bruce Brown over his last 10 games
— csb (@itsCSB__) December 16, 2023
11.7 PPG
4.9 RPG
2.9 APG
1.6 SPG
41% FG
19%(!!!!!) 3PT https://t.co/9xBMu4BT76
Last night Myles Turner was largely ineffective and vastly outplayed by his backup, Isaiah Jackson. Jackson had one of the best games of his career against the Wizards, tallying 20 points, 12 rebounds and one block in a mere 20 minutes of playing time.
Isaiah Jackson records his first double-double of the season.
— Indiana Pacers (@Pacers) December 16, 2023
20 PTS | 13 REB pic.twitter.com/aQRM7tkmDl
Carlisle went to the end of the bench fairly early yesterday, with Walker getting about 13 minutes and Sheppard getting about eight. He may have no choice but to do so again tonight, as the Pacers' injuries are starting to add up. Star man Tyrese Haliburton is questionable tonight with knee bruise after colliding with Bilal Coulibaly. Luckily the injury does not seem serious and Jalen Smith appears close to returning, as well.
Smith's been making progress, per Carlisle. Saw him doing a good bit on his own at the end of practice on Thursday. So doesn't look too far off, but Carlisle hasn't put a timeline on it.
— Dustin Dopirak (@DustinDopirak) December 16, 2023
Haliburton on his knee: "I'm fine, I'm just banged up a little bit. There was a little wet spot on the floor. I landed on my hip, that's fine, but me and Bilal went knee to knee, so just a little sore right now." Said he doesn't know if he'll be available tomorrow.
— Dustin Dopirak (@DustinDopirak) December 16, 2023
Despite that positive news, it won't help the Pacers tonight as they take on the league's best defense (and one of its best teams, full stop). The much ridiculed trade for Rudy Gobert is not looking quite so foolish these days as Minnesota is simply stifling opponents with Gobert as its defensive anchor.
Without Haliburton, the prospects of Indy looking competent offensively are not bright. Given that the Pacers cannot defend to save their lives, it's not exactly a bold prediction to say the Pacers may be in for a rough night.
I'll be watching for more minutes for the young guys in a game that is likely a schedule loss on even the best (and healthiest) of circumstances.
How to Watch
Tipoff is at 8:00 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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