Celtics Prepare for Road Test Against the Pacers
The Boston Celtics are hitting the road for a Monday night matchup against the Indiana Pacers, aiming to secure a bounce-back win after entering a small rocky stretch following their loss to the Denver Nuggets last Wednesday. Boston enters at 24-14 and sits third in the Eastern Conference, firmly entrenched in the playoff picture, while Indiana has struggled throughout the season, posting an 8-31 record and sitting near the bottom of the standings. Although the gap between the two teams is significant, this contest still carries importance for Boston as it looks to maintain momentum and avoid a letdown against a rebuilding Pacers squad. For Indiana, the game represents another opportunity to test its roster against one of the Eastern Conference’s top teams.
Indiana has endured a difficult season, particularly against highly competitive NBA opponents, Boston included. The Celtics gained the upper hand against the Pacers twice last December, emphasizing the extent of Indiana’s struggles. The Pacers have averaged 111.2 points per game, yet defensive issues have consistently undermined those efforts. One of Indiana’s top players, Pascal Siakam, has remained a steady offensive presence, averaging 23.6 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.8 assists, while Aaron Nesmith has contributed perimeter shooting, averaging 2.2 made three-pointers over his last 10 games. Injuries have further complicated Indiana’s season, with Tyrese Haliburton sidelined for the year as well as other multiple rotation players.
Boston has been strong against Eastern Conference competition despite facing early-season challenges. The team has held its own against other competitive NBA opponents while addressing areas in need of improvement in its on-court performance. Players such as Jaylen Brown continue to lead the way, averaging 29.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, and five assists, while Anfernee Simons has added consistent perimeter scoring, averaging 3.4 made three-pointers over the last 10 games. Boston’s offense remains heavily reliant on ball movement and outside shooting, averaging 15.9 made three-pointers per game, a notable advantage against an Indiana defense that allows 11.5 per contest.
The key dynamic in this matchup centers on Boston’s perimeter shooting versus Indiana’s defensive coverage. The Celtics’ ability to generate clean looks from beyond the arc could stretch the Pacers’ defense early and create separation on the scoreboard. On the other end, Indiana will need efficient scoring from Siakam while limiting transition opportunities if it hopes to keep pace. Bench production and defensive consistency loom as important factors, particularly given Indiana’s injury situation. Boston is also dealing with injuries, as Jayson Tatum remains sidelined with an Achilles tendon injury, Josh Minott is out with an ankle injury, and Sam Hauser is unavailable due to a hamstring injury. How well the Pacers manage Boston’s ball movement may ultimately determine how competitive the game remains, especially with both teams facing player shortages. If Indiana cannot contain Boston’s primary ball handlers at the point of attack, its defense risks collapsing early and allowing the Celtics to control the game from the perimeter.
If Boston’s three-point shooting sets the tone early in tomorrow night’s match up, the Celtics should be able to control the game without needing a late push. The team carries momentum, entering with a strong recent record and consistent success against conference opponents, while Indiana continues to search for stability amid injuries and defensive struggles. Fans should watch Boston’s efficiency from beyond the arc and whether Indiana can slow the pace enough to avoid falling behind early. While anything can happen on a given night, Boston holds a clear edge in form, depth, and execution, positioning the Celtics as the favorites to continue their road success.
