The Indiana Pacers face the Boston Celtics on Monday, December 22, at 7:30 PM ET at TD Garden. Indiana enters on a four-game losing streak with a 6-22 record, while Boston carries a two-game winning streak at 17-11.
The Pacers are dealing with significant absences. Tyrese Haliburton remains out with a right Achilles tear, Obi Toppin is sidelined with a right foot stress fracture, and Aaron Nesmith is out with a left knee MCL sprain. Johnny Furphy, T.J. McConnell, and Kam Jones are all questionable, while Ben Sheppard is out with a left calf strain.
Boston also faces injury concerns despite recent wins. Jayson Tatum remains out following right Achilles repair, Jaylen Brown is questionable with illness, and Jordan Walsh is also listed as questionable. Ron Harper Jr., Max Shulga, and Amari Williams are unavailable due to G League assignments.
Indiana relies heavily on Pascal Siakam, who averages 23.8 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game. Bennedict Mathurin adds 18.9 points, while Andrew Nembhard contributes 17.5 points and 6.4 assists when healthy.
Boston will be without Tatum, leaving Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, and Payton Pritchard to lead the offense. Brown averages 29.3 points and 6.3 rebounds, while White contributes 18.2 points and 5.1 assists. Neemias Queta provides a strong presence inside with 7.9 rebounds and 10.1 points per game.
The teams have not met this season, making this Eastern Conference matchup a first test of the year for both. Tip-off is at 7:30 PM ET.
