Pacers’ Struggles Intensify Against Rockets
The Indiana Pacers find themselves mired in a nine-game losing streak following a tough 126-119 defeat to Kevin Durant and the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center. As has become a familiar narrative during this downturn, the Pacers started strong but ultimately succumbed to a series of mistakes that allowed the Rockets to seize control.
First Half Setbacks
In the early stages, the Pacers appeared competitive, holding their ground against a dynamic Rockets squad. However, the second quarter was a turning point. Houston outscored Indiana 36-23, establishing an 18-point lead by halftime. The Rockets’ offensive onslaught continued into the third quarter, where they scored 39 points, further widening the gap. The Pacers attempted to mount a comeback in the final frame, but the scoreline was misleading, as their deficit had ballooned to as much as 28 points at one stage.
Individual Performances Shine Amidst Team Struggles
Despite the loss, there were glimmers of hope for the Pacers in their individual performances. Pascal Siakam led the team with 23 points, shooting 8-of-16 from the field. Bennedict Mathurin contributed 14 points, while Andrew Nembhard added 11 points, though his efficiency faltered with a 4-of-14 shooting night.
The bench provided some much-needed energy, particularly Aaron Nesmith, who returned from injury to log 24 minutes. He made a significant impact, scoring 14 points on 5-of-8 shooting, including 4-of-6 from beyond the arc. Furthermore, Jarace Walker, a former Houston Cougars standout, showcased his skills in his old stomping grounds with 12 points on an impressive 5-of-7 shooting.
Rockets Dominate the Boards
On the opposing side, Kevin Durant delivered a masterclass performance, scoring 30 points with a remarkable 13-of-20 shooting clip. Jabari Smith complemented Durant’s effort with a solid double-double, posting 21 points and grabbing 10 rebounds. The Rockets’ dominance on the boards was glaring; they secured 50 rebounds compared to the Pacers’ meager 30. This disparity in physicality was a crucial factor in Indiana’s inability to keep pace with Houston throughout the contest.
Looking Ahead for the Pacers
As the Pacers reflect on yet another disappointing outing, they remain focused on learning from their experiences. The team’s next challenge comes on New Year’s Eve when they return home to face Paolo Banchero and the Orlando Magic. With tip-off scheduled for Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the Pacers will be eager to turn the page and find a way to snap their losing streak. Fans can catch the action on FanDuel Sports Network or stream it via NBA League Pass.
