Indiana Pacers return to action on Friday night as they host the Boston Celtics at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, looking to halt a prolonged slump.
Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET, marking the second meeting between the two Eastern Conference sides this season. Boston claimed the first matchup earlier this week with a 103–95 victory, further extending Indiana’s struggles.
Indiana enters the contest on a six-game losing streak and has dropped eight of its last 10 games. At 6–24 on the season, the Pacers are tied with the Washington Wizards for the league’s worst record, making Friday’s matchup another uphill challenge—especially given the team’s lengthy injury list.
Key Indiana Pacers ruled out against Boston
Indiana will once again be without several rotation players, including All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton. Haliburton is listed as out as he continues to deal with an Achilles issue, leaving a major void in playmaking and scoring.
Isaiah Jackson also remains sidelined after suffering a head injury during Monday’s loss to the Celtics. The big man exited that game just two minutes in and subsequently missed Indiana’s December 23 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks. Jackson is still in the concussion protocol and has been ruled out for Friday.
Additional absences include Aaron Nesmith, who is out with a knee injury, Ben Sheppard, who continues to recover from a calf issue, and Obi Toppin, who remains sidelined with a foot injury. The lack of frontcourt depth has been particularly challenging for Indiana during its recent skid.
Taelon Peter status offers limited optimism
One positive note for Indiana Pacers is the availability of Taelon Peter. The two-way guard is listed as probable despite being assigned to the G League.
Peter has appeared briefly in Indiana’s last two games, logging one minute in each outing. While his role has been limited, his availability provides the coaching staff with another backcourt option amid ongoing injuries.
Celtics enter matchup with momentum
Boston, meanwhile, arrives in Indianapolis in strong form. The Celtics hold an 18–11 record, have won three straight games, and currently sit third in the Eastern Conference standings.
They are just 2.5 games behind the New York Knicks for the No. 2 seed, adding further urgency to Friday’s matchup.
With Indiana short-handed and Boston rolling, Indiana Pacers will need contributions from their remaining healthy players to stay competitive in the rematch.