Atlanta Hawks vs Indiana Pacers: Today’s Game Preview & Lineup Predictions
The Atlanta Hawks are set to face the Indiana Pacers in a highly anticipated matchup today. Initially scheduled for a later time, the game was moved up due to adverse weather conditions. The Hawks are entering this contest as strong favorites, given the Pacers’ struggles this season, which make them the team with the worst record in the NBA.
Game Preview: Atlanta Hawks vs Indiana Pacers
Despite recent difficulties, the Hawks have a positive track record against the Pacers, winning their last three encounters. Their most recent victory featured a dominant 20-point win. Conversely, the Pacers are coming off a surprising upset against the Oklahoma City Thunder, winning 117-114. While the Pacers occupy the second-worst record in the Eastern Conference, they possess the potential to secure unexpected victories.
Statistics Overview
| Team | Points | Field Goal % | 3-Point % | Free Throw % | Rebounds | Assists | Turnovers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlanta Hawks | 10th | 9th | 6th | 22nd | 25th | 1st | 17th |
| Indiana Pacers | 29th | 30th | 27th | 24th | 22nd | 20th | 12th |
Strengths and Weaknesses
The Hawks have struggled offensively this season but have shown improvement recently. They rank first in assists but sit near the bottom for offensive efficiency. Their defense has also been inconsistent, ranking 25th in points allowed. However, they recently demonstrated better performance by holding the Phoenix Suns to just 103 points.
The Pacers, on the other hand, have experienced a drastic decline in offensive performance compared to last season. They are last in several key categories, including field goal percentage and offensive rating. Their defensive rank is also concerning, as they allow significant points and struggle with rebounding.
Key Player Matchup
A vital matchup to watch is between Hawks’ center Onyeka Okongwu and the Pacers’ center rotation. With the Pacers ranked poorly in points allowed in the paint, this could be an area where Okongwu thrives. He recently scored impressively in games against the Memphis Grizzlies and the Suns.
Injuries and Expected Lineups
In terms of injuries, the Hawks will see the absence of Zaccharie Risacher, Kristaps Porzingis, and N’Faly Dante. The Pacers are missing Obi Toppin, Benedict Mathurin, and Tyrese Haliburton, with Quenton Jackson listed as questionable.
- Hawks Projected Starters:
- G – Nickeil Alexander-Walker
- G – Dyson Daniels
- F – Corey Kispert
- F – Jalen Johnson
- C – Kristaps Porzingis
- Pacers Projected Starters:
- G – Andrew Nembhard
- G – Johnny Furphy
- F – Aaron Nesmith
- F – Jarace Walker
- C – Jay Huff
How to Watch
The game is scheduled for a 1:30 p.m. ET tip-off at State Farm Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. Fans can catch the action on the FanDuel Sports Network.
As the Atlanta Hawks seek to extend their winning streak against the Indiana Pacers, the outcome of this matchup could significantly impact standings in the Eastern Conference.
