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Indiana Pacers enter Friday night’s matchup against the San Antonio Spurs with a depleted roster, as multiple rotation players remain sidelined or limited due to injury.
With the season still in its early stages and Indiana searching for consistency, the availability of key contributors will play a decisive role in how competitive Pacers can be against one of the league’s stronger teams.
Indiana and San Antonio meet for the first of their two regular-season matchups on Friday, January 2, with tip-off scheduled for 8:00 p.m. EST at the Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida.
The Spurs have historically held the upper hand in this rivalry, and while the two teams split last season’s series, Pacers head into this contest shorthanded.
Indiana Pacers Injury Report: Current status
Indiana Pacers’ injury report highlights issues across both the backcourt and frontcourt, forcing the coaching staff to lean heavily on depth players and role adjustments.
T.J. McConnell is listed as probable with a hamstring concern. While his status suggests he is expected to be available, his workload could be carefully managed.
McConnell’s presence is important for Indiana, particularly in controlling tempo and providing secondary ball-handling when the offense stalls.
Isaiah Jackson has been ruled out due to a concussion. His absence impacts Indiana’s interior defense and rebounding, areas where the Pacers may already be at a disadvantage against a physical Spurs lineup.
Obi Toppin is also out as he continues to recover from a foot injury. Toppin’s ability to run the floor and contribute as an athletic scoring option will be missed, especially with Indiana needing offensive support beyond its starters.
The most significant absence remains Tyrese Haliburton, who is out with an Achilles issue. Without their primary offensive engine, Indiana Pacers are once again forced to adjust their approach, relying on committee playmaking and increased shot creation from the wings and frontcourt.
Projected starters vs. Spurs
Despite the injuries, Indiana is expected to open the game with the following lineup:
G Andrew Nembhard
G Bennedict Mathurin
C Jay Huff
F Johnny Furphy
F Pascal Siakam
Nembhard is likely to handle primary playmaking duties, while Mathurin’s scoring aggression becomes essential. Pascal Siakam remains the focal point, tasked with anchoring both ends of the floor and stabilizing a lineup missing several regular contributors.
Broadcast Information
TV: FanDuel Sports Network Sun (South Florida), FanDuel Sports Network Indiana
As Indiana Pacers continue to battle injuries, execution and discipline will be critical against a Spurs team entering the game with momentum. Indiana’s ability to stay competitive may hinge on how effectively its reshuffled lineup responds under pressure.
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