Indiana Pacers’ Shocking Slump Continues
The Indiana Pacers are in the midst of a troubling downward spiral as they prepare to face the Boston Celtics on Monday, December 26, at 7:00 p.m. EST. The game will take place at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana, and will be broadcasted on FanDuel Sports Network Indiana and NBC Sports Boston, while various radio stations will provide coverage across the region.
Game Overview
This matchup marks the second of four regular-season encounters between the Pacers and Celtics, with the Pacers suffering a disappointing loss just four days prior. Historically, the Pacers have faced the Celtics 198 times, holding an all-time record of 87-111. At home, however, they have fared better, recording 58 wins to 41 losses, although their road performance has been less impressive, with just 29 victories against 70 defeats.
Projected Starters
Pacers
G Andrew Nembhard
G Ethan Thompson
C Jay Huff
F Bennedict Mathurin
F Pascal Siakam
Celtics
G Payton Pritchard
G Derrick White
C Neemias Queta
F Jaylen Brown
F Josh Minott
Betting Lines
As per FanDuel Sportsbook, the Pacers are currently a +8.5 underdog, while the Celtics sit at -8.5. The moneyline shows the Pacers at +290 and the Celtics at -360, with a total points line set at 221.5, indicating a slight favor for the over.
Injury Report
Both teams are dealing with significant injuries as they head into this clash. For the Pacers, Isaiah Jackson will miss the game due to a concussion, while Aaron Nesmith faces a knee injury. Ben Sheppard is out with a calf issue, Obi Toppin has a foot injury, and Tyrese Haliburton is sidelined with an Achilles problem. The Celtics will be without Chris Boucher, who is absent for personal reasons, and Jayson Tatum, who is also nursing an Achilles injury.
Coach’s Perspective
Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle has acknowledged the team’s offensive struggles in recent games. “I agree. We’ve hit some droughts for different reasons,” he stated. “Some is make-or-miss, some is there’s occasionally stagnancy that comes in, sometimes it’s decision-making. But the last three games have shown positives, and we’ve got to work at building on those.”
Looking Ahead
As the Pacers prepare for this crucial game against the Celtics, fans and analysts alike are left wondering if the team can overcome their recent struggles. With key players out and the pressure mounting, the upcoming match could serve as a turning point for Indiana. The stakes are high, and the Pacers will need to rally if they hope to find their footing against a formidable Celtics squad.
