Matchup Overview
In a key matchup in the Eastern Conference, the Indiana Pacers will face off against the Boston Celtics on Wednesday evening at 7:30 p.m. EST in Boston. Currently, the Celtics hold a significant advantage with a record of 26 wins and 16 losses, placing them second in the Eastern Conference standings. In stark contrast, the Pacers sit at the bottom, with only 10 wins against 34 losses, ranking 15th in the same conference.
Team Performance
Boston has proven to be a strong competitor in the East, boasting a record of 19 victories and 10 defeats against conference opponents. They lead the league with an impressive average of 116.7 points per game, outscoring their opponents by an average margin of 6.7 points. Meanwhile, Indiana struggles defensively, allowing 118.3 points per game, while they manage to score an average of 110.1 points themselves. This has resulted in a disappointing 4-27 record when playing teams with winning records.
Previous Meetings
This matchup marks the fourth meeting between these two teams this season, with the Pacers narrowly winning the last contest
98-96
on January 13, led by Pascal Siakam’s 21 points. Notable performers for the Celtics include Derrick White, who is averaging 17.7 points per game with a shooting percentage of 39.1%, while Jaylen Brown has been scoring prominently with an average of 27.8 points over the last 10 games. For Indiana, Siakam contributes an average of 23.6 points, 6.9 rebounds, and four assists, while Andrew Nembhard is adding 15.4 points per game recently.
Recent Form
In their last spans of games, the Celtics have posted a 6-4 record, consistently averaging 116.1 points, 48.2 rebounds, and 22.7 assists per game, while yielding only 107.5 points to their opponents. The Pacers, on the other hand, have won 4 of their last 10 games and average 110.1 points with a defense allowing 115.3 points per game.
Injury Report
Injuries may also affect gameplay, with the Celtics missing Jayson Tatum due to an Achilles injury, while Josh Minott is questionable with an ankle injury. The Pacers’ situation is more dire, as Tyrese Haliburton is out for the season due to an Achilles injury, and Obi Toppin is out due to a foot issue, with Bennedict Mathurin listed as day-to-day with a thumb injury.
Conclusion
This clash between the Pacers and the Celtics holds potential ramifications as both teams strive to strengthen their trajectories as the season progresses.
